Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is renowned for its smooth and substantial feel, providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback for typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, offering a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action for a rich typing experience. While the Matcha Green Pro is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', 'Silky', the Sky V4 is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Dareu Sky V4, we can see similarities in the polycarbonate top housing used in both switches. The polycarbonate material in the V3 Matcha Green Pro creates a sharp, crisp sound profile, while the POK material in the Sky V4 contributes to a smooth and clacky sound. Both materials offer durability and are suitable for switches with RGB lighting, making them ideal choices for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a high-quality typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the top housing materials. Despite the differences in the top housings, the nylon bottom housings in both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel when typing, making them reliable choices for those seeking a more tactile response.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Sky V4 differ, they each bring unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when bottoming out keys, contributing to the sound and feel of pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding the properties of each housing material, keyboard enthusiasts can choose switches that align with their preferences for sound, feel, and durability.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch. The V3 Matcha Green Pro requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out, providing a medium feel. On the other hand, the Sky V4 only needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, giving it a lighter, medium-light touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Sky V4 may be the better option, while those looking for a more substantial and tactile feel may prefer the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Both switches offer a reliable medium to medium-light actuation force, ensuring similar typing results despite their slight variations in weight.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Dareu Sky V4, with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a tad more depth with its 3.8 mm travel distance, providing a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for either a shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
The Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound profile, producing sharp and crisp noises with each keystroke. This sound is further heightened by the switch's design, providing an immersive auditory experience that users will find satisfying. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound that is deep, rich, and mellow in tone. Users can expect a more nuanced and bass-heavy auditory experience when typing on the Sky V4 switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound aesthetics, with the Matcha Green Pro offering a brighter and sharper sound, while the Sky V4 provides a deeper and more resonant tone.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 exhibit a bouncy sensation in typing. This spring-like feedback gives users a lively and responsive feel when pressing down on the keys, allowing for a more dynamic typing experience. Additionally, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and effortless key travel. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch is highlighted for its bouncy feel, offering users a rebound effect when pressing down on the keys. While the specific feel may vary slightly between the two switches, users can expect a similar level of bounciness and responsiveness in both choices.
Taking into account the sound and feel characteristics of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, individuals looking for a more clacky and resonant sound profile combined with a creamy and silky typing experience may prefer the Matcha Green Pro switch. On the other hand, those seeking a thocky and low-pitched sound with a bouncy feel in typing may opt for the Sky V4 switch. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences in sound and feel, as both options offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and user preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Opt for the V3 Matcha Green Pro if you prefer a switch with a higher bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a solid and substantial keystroke experience with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a tactile feedback and a medium to heavy typing feel. On the other hand, select the Dareu Sky V4 if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a smooth linear action with a deeper sound signature and a rich typing experience. This switch is suitable for those who enjoy a medium-light typing feel and a switch crafted with innovative POK material for a unique typing experience. Assess your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored to your individual style.
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