Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both stand out as excellent options for tactile enthusiasts. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is praised for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a more medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, appealing to those looking for a balanced typing feel. While both switches have their own unique qualities, such as the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's accented and polished characteristics and the Violet Gold Pro's stepped design, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The similar use of polycarbonate in both keyboards ensures that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when typing on either keyboard.
However, where the keyboards differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar deep and full sound profile during typing. These similarities in bottom housing material suggest that the typing experience on both keyboards may feel consistent in terms of sound quality.
When considering how the different housing materials impact the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the keypress. The softer nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall sound profile of the keyboard. Despite some differences in materials, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer high-quality sound profiles that cater to users looking for a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial triggering of a keystroke. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when fully pressing the key, while the bottom out force of the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is unknown. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a medium-light feel overall, suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's bottom out force remains a mystery, making it difficult to determine if it offers a lighter or heavier typing feel compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switches both have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance. Both switches provide a similar tactile feedback due to their identical travel distances, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of keypress feel. Therefore, whether you choose the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro or the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, you can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro 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
In terms of sound, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a neutral sound signature, striking a balance that appeals to a wide range of users. Both switches offer pleasant sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the choice ultimately coming down to personal preference and the accompanying keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is characterized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a tactile experience that is responsive, lively, and smooth. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro is described as stepped, providing a two-stage tactile feedback with a mild feel. Both switches offer unique tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a more pronounced tactility or a gentler touch during typing sessions.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switches both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro stands out with its higher-pitched sound profile and accentuated tactile feedback, while the Violet Gold Pro provides a balanced sound signature and a stepped tactile experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to create a customized and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. Choose the V3 Lavender Purple Pro if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, higher-pitched sound profile, and a delightful tactile bump. On the other hand, opt for the Violet Gold Pro if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound signature, medium tactility, and a fairly light touch. Ultimately, your choice should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. Trust your instincts and go with the switch that resonates with you the most.