Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Master offer distinct experiences for users. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch that is best known for its higher-pitched sound profile, satisfying tactile bump, and overall delightful typing experience. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', this switch is tailored for keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy a tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is a linear switch made of POM material, offering a medium weight and a classic clacky sound signature. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished', this switch provides exceptional smoothness in operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Master offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more resonant sound. In contrast, the Master's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a different auditory experience for users.
On the bottom housing side, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a nylon material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller but rounder sound. Similarly, the Master's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Although both switches feature different bottom housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Master results in distinct sound profiles. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a variety of tactile and auditory sensations when typing. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Master provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM housing materials. Both switches aim to cater to users seeking a unique and pleasing typing experience based on their preferences for sound.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Dareu Master is unknown. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Master switch. The actuation force for both switches is on the lighter side, which is beneficial for those who prefer to type or game for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. Additionally, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. If you're looking for a switch with a quicker response time, the Master linear switch may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with more perceived depth and feedback, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch with its longer travel distance could be the better choice. Both switches offer different experiences when it comes to travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience with a tactile bump. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a classic clacky sound signature, giving users a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound experiences that can enhance the overall typing feel based on personal preference, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro being more tactile-focused while the Master leans towards a linear feel.
In terms of feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides an accented typing experience with bouncy and snappy qualities, as well as a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable, with a polished finish for a sleek typing feel. Both switches focus on providing a smooth operation, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offering more tactile feedback and the Master delivering a softer linear feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Master switches offer unique sound profiles and typing feels that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched sound with tactile feedback or a classic clacky sound with smooth linear operation, both switches provide quality options for enthusiasts looking to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that you will get a satisfying typing experience regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch or the Dareu Master linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium weight, classic clacky sound signature, and exceptional smoothness in operation, then the Dareu Master linear switch may be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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