Dareu Master vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Master and Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Master features the all-POM linear Master switch, providing a medium weight feel with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are designed specifically for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, light actuation force, and shortened travel distance for quick responsiveness. While the Dareu Master focuses on providing a polished and mild typing experience, the Akko V3 Silver Pro excels in providing an easy-to-press, creamy, and feathery typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Master's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro is especially beneficial for those looking to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Master's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and unique sound, while the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound profile.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Dareu Master and Akko V3 Silver Pro have distinct sound profiles, they each provide their own benefits. The POM top housing of the Master offers a more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Silver Pro absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the Master's POM bottom housing. These differences in material contribute to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each keyboard.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. While the Dareu Master and Akko V3 Silver Pro feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, each material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches. Whether opting for the deeper and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, users can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience from both keyboards.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Silver Pro is 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Dareu Master, for which the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the V3 Silver Pro provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Dareu Master. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the V3 Silver Pro for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Dareu Master for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, whereas the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices among gamers for their faster response times. However, the slightly longer travel distance of the Dareu Master may provide a slightly deeper feel when pressing down on the key compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly deeper or slightly shallower key press 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 Silver 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 Silver 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 Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp tone with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, users may enjoy the classic clacky sound of the Master or the more high-pitched sound of the V3 Silver Pro, taking into consideration other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. On the contrary, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for being easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, providing a light actuation force with a smooth and buttery typing sensation. Whether users prefer a mild and polished feel or a more creamy and feathery typing experience, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Taking all factors into consideration, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Master is characterized by its clacky sound and mild feel, the V3 Silver Pro stands out for its high-pitched sound and creamy, feathery typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with both switches providing smooth operation and satisfying typing experiences for users, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the chosen switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch specifically engineered for gaming with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, the Akko V3 Silver Pro would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and usage scenarios. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user needs, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and requirements.
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