Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. The Akko V3 Piano Pro with its Piano Pro switches is praised for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its premium quality made from POM material, offering a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness at a more accessible price point. Each switch is categorized by its own set of qualities, making them suitable for different typing styles and preferences. 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
3.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky POM both boast unique qualities that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing that produces a deep and fuller sound when typing, while the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a more muted yet pleasing sound. On the other hand, both keyboards have nylon bottom housings that also elicit a deep and full sound profile. This results in a similar sound experience when pressing down on the keys for both keyboards.
However, where the two keyboards differ is in the materials used for the bottom housings. The V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Sky POM's bottom housing is also made of nylon, providing a similar deep and full sound profile as the V3 Piano Pro. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a varied sound experience depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it.
In terms of overall sound quality, the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials. While the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing, the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a more muted yet pleasing sound. Despite these differences, both keyboards share similar characteristics in their nylon bottom housings, resulting in a consistent sound experience when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch with 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Piano Pro is also higher at 55 grams, while the Sky POM's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the V3 Piano Pro switch is considered medium-light, making it suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch's weight is undefined, so it may be lighter or heavier than the V3 Piano Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the V3 Piano Pro offering a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Sky POM.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Dareu Sky POM switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro. In terms of preference, gamers may lean towards the Akko V3 Piano Pro for its shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, which can offer faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Dareu Sky POM with its 3.8 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Dareu Sky POM 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 POM for $4.98.
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 Piano Pro linear switch is best described as having a clacky and resonant sound profile. These characteristics contribute to a sharp, snappy sound when pressed, along with a clean and sharp higher-pitched tone, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is noted for its low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Sky POM switch provides a unique auditory experience with its clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is mentioned to have a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, along with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The keys feel lively and offer a sleek and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is characterized by a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and Dareu Sky POM linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Piano Pro excels in providing a snappy sound signature and a pleasing tactile experience with its bouncy and creamy feel, the Sky POM stands out for its clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force, offering a buttery and silky typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide a premium quality typing experience at different price points, catering to a variety of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and budget considerations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a snappy sound signature with smooth actuation and a medium-light bottom out force, the V3 Piano Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value premium quality at an accessible price point, along with a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM switch could be more suitable for your needs. Consider the sound profile, feel, and bottom out force of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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