Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Sky V3, a linear switch. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is praised for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts seeking a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3 from Dareu is known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a more subdued and mild typing feel. While the Lavender Purple Pro offers a polished and accented typing experience, the Sky V3 caters to a wider range of preferences with its neutral and comfortable feel. 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
40g
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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Sky V3, we see that both keyboards use polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of both keyboards. With similar top housings, users can expect comparable sound and lighting effects from both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Sky V3.
On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 differ in their bottom housing materials, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro using nylon while the Sky V3 sticks with polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper, higher-pitched sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Sky V3. While both materials have their advantages, users might prefer the softer, fuller sound of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing for a more muted typing experience.
In terms of performance, the housing materials of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 can have different impacts depending on where they are used. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Users who prioritize the typing experience may appreciate the deeper sound created by the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, while those who value a crisper sound profile may prefer the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Dareu Sky V3. Ultimately, both keyboards offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, catering to different user preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is also heavier at 55 grams, whereas the Sky V3's bottom out force is not specified. While both switches provide a medium-light actuation force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a more defined bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Sky V3 may offer a lighter typing experience due to its lower actuation force, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, which is shorter than the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch with a travel distance of 4mm. The difference of 0.2mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dareu Sky V3 switch can provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 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
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is known for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, offering a delightful typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is celebrated for its neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of typing preferences. While the Lavender Purple Pro switch provides an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, the Sky V3 switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference, with the Lavender Purple Pro switch catering to those who enjoy a more tactile and pronounced typing experience, while the Sky V3 switch appeals to users seeking a smoother and gentler feel. Both switches provide excellent quality and performance, ensuring that users will achieve satisfying results regardless of their selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfying tactile typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force and a more gentle typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider your typing style and sound preferences when selecting the switch that best suits your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Dareu Sky V3 switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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