Dareu Master vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Master linear switch offers a medium weight and classic clacky sound signature, providing exceptional smoothness in operation for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch boasts a snappy sound signature with a lively, crisp quality to each keystroke, while also maintaining smoothness in actuation for a pleasing tactile experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Master and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, we can see that both keyboards use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Dareu Master features a POM top housing, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing. The POM housing of the Dareu Master creates a deep and relatively muted sound profile, while the nylon housing of the Akko V3 Piano Pro produces a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition. Despite these differences, both materials offer their own unique sound characteristics, providing users with a pleasing typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both keyboards are the same, with POM being used in both the Dareu Master and the Akko V3 Piano Pro. This means that when pressing down on the switches, users will feel the impact of the POM bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, the top housing also contributes to the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even though the top and bottom housings may differ between the two keyboards, users can still expect a similar level of sound quality and typing comfort when using either the Dareu Master or the Akko V3 Piano Pro.
In summary, the choice of housing material in a keyboard can greatly impact the sound profile and overall typing experience. The Dareu Master with its POM top and bottom housings offers a unique, deep, and muted sound, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro with its nylon top and POM bottom housings provides a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition. Despite these differences, both keyboards aim to provide users with a pleasing typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in the design of mechanical keyboards. Whether one prefers the deeper tones of POM or the fuller sound of nylon, both the Dareu Master and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer quality options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Master switch has an unknown bottom out force, while the Piano Pro switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. In terms of weight, the Master switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force since the force required is unknown, while the Piano Pro switch is heavier with a confirmed bottom out force. This means that the Piano Pro switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Master switch may be more suitable for those looking for a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances favored by gamers for quicker response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to all users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper press, the Akko V3 Piano Pro may be the better option. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them suitable for those seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
The Dareu Master linear switch is best known for its classic clacky sound signature, giving a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a snappy sound with a resonant quality, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer a smooth operation during actuation, ensuring a pleasing tactile experience. When considering sound alone, both switches have a similar clacky characteristic, but the V3 Piano Pro adds a resonant quality for a more immersive sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master switch provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing feel with a silky smooth sensation, thanks to factory lubrication and specific materials used. Both switches feature a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. While the Master switch leans towards a mild and polished feel, the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy and creamy sensation for a more lively typing experience.
Overall, both the Dareu Master linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While they both present a clacky sound signature, the V3 Piano Pro switch adds a resonant quality for a more immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Master switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, while the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, and silky smooth sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the classic clacky sound of the Master switch or the lively and creamy feel of the V3 Piano Pro switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a medium weight, along with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a snappy sound signature, and a smooth yet lively tactile experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which features align best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
