Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Piano Pro features the Piano Pro switches, known for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 boasts the Dareu V3 switches, praised for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance between comfort and precision. While the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 provides a more subdued and mild feel. 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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, while the Sky V3 uses polycarbonate for its top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Sky V3 contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature.
In terms of aesthetics, the Dareu Sky V3 stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which is clear and allows for RGB lighting to shine through. This gives the Sky V3 a visually appealing aspect that the Akko V3 Piano Pro does not have with its solid nylon top housing. However, both keyboards share the benefits of nylon for their bottom housing, which enhances the typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound. While the materials used in the top housings differ, both keyboards offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The nylon bottom housing in both keyboards provides a consistent typing experience with a deep and full sound. However, the difference in top housing materials - nylon for the Piano Pro and polycarbonate for the Sky V3 - results in varying sound profiles, with the Sky V3 offering a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 adds a visually striking element with RGB lighting, while the Piano Pro maintains a classic and understated look with its solid nylon top housing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Piano Pro has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky V3's actuation force of 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Piano Pro is also higher at 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. This makes the V3 Piano Pro a slightly heavier option in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The weight of a switch is crucial as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Sky V3 for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, the Piano Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sky V3 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Piano Pro offers a slightly shallower feel compared to the Sky V3, which provides a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. Gamers looking for faster response times might prefer the Piano Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Sky V3. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 V3 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 V3 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 Piano Pro linear switch is best described as clacky and resonant, offering a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched and clean profile. This creates a lively and percussive auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for a wide range of users. The Sky V3 offers a more gentle and dampened sound compared to the vibrant and sharp sound of the Piano Pro, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is characterized as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, delivering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth, buttery, and refined typing experience. The keys feel lively and offer a silky smooth sensation, enhancing the overall typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience with qualities that fall in a safe, middle-ground zone. The Sky V3 offers a comfortable and approachable typing feel, suitable for users who prefer a less pronounced tactile feedback.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akko V3 Piano Pro excels in providing a vibrant and snappy sound with a bouncy and silky smooth typing feel, catering to users who enjoy a lively and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 focuses on delivering a neutral and subdued sound with a mild and gentle typing feel, appealing to users seeking a quieter and more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches offering unique characteristics to enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider the following factors. Choose the Akko V3 Piano Pro if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a snappy and lively sound signature, and a smooth actuation for a pleasing tactile experience. Opt for the Dareu Sky V3 if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile, medium-light weight, and a versatile balance of comfort and precision. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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