Dareu Holly vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, two distinct typing experiences come to mind. The Holly switch, with its medium 50g actuation force, offers a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. While the Holly switch is categorized as a combination of chirpy, clacky, and neutral characteristics, the Piano Pro switch boasts qualities such as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky. When deciding between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, it is clear that both keyboards offer unique sound profiles based on their construction. The Holly's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound, ideal for users looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded typing sensation. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Holly is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro focuses more on sound absorption for a duller sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Holly and the V3 Piano Pro feature nylon bottom housings that provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistency in material for the bottom housing ensures that users will experience a similar typing sensation in terms of sound output across both keyboards. However, the split between the top and bottom housing materials in the switches means that the specific sound characteristics of each material are more pronounced in different instances - with the top housing affecting the typing sound upon key release, and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, the Dareu Holly and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer distinct sound profiles based on their respective housing materials. While the Holly's polycarbonate top housing creates a crisper and sharper sound, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller typing experience. Both keyboards utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile. The choice between these keyboards ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. The Holly tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 45 grams, making the Holly slightly heavier to press down. However, the bottom out force for the Holly switch is unknown, while the V3 Piano Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that the V3 Piano Pro provides a more consistent resistance throughout the keypress, whereas the Holly switch may have a variable feel as it is pressed down further. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Holly has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a deeper key press that some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Piano Pro offers a shorter travel distance, which can be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, with the Holly providing a more traditional key press feel and the Piano Pro catering to those looking for a quicker touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what type of typing or gaming experience you are seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing users with a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is known for its snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. Both switches have characteristics that cater to users seeking an auditory charm during typing, with the Holly emphasizing a chirpy sound and the V3 Piano Pro focusing on a clean and sharp clacky sound profile. Overall, users can expect a satisfying sound experience with either switch, depending on their preference for a chirpy or clacky typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly switch lacks detailed descriptions, making it difficult to gauge its tactile qualities. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is praised for its bouncy, creamy, and silky tactile sensations, providing users with a spring-like feedback, smooth keystrokes, and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. While the feel of the Holly switch remains unknown, the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a variety of tactile qualities that enhance the typing feel and overall user experience.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holly switch provides a distinct chirpy and clacky sound signature, catering to users seeking a balanced auditory experience, the V3 Piano Pro switch excels in providing a lively and crisp sound alongside bouncy, creamy, and silky tactile sensations for a smooth and refined typing experience. Whether users prefer a chirpy or clacky sound with smooth and spring-like key presses, both switches offer satisfying options for a personalized typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Holly tactile switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is important to assess your preferences in both sound and feel. If you value a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, along with a medium actuation force, the Holly may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy sound signature with smooth actuation and a bottom out force of 55 grams, the V3 Piano Pro could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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