Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The V3 Piano Pro is renowned for its Piano Pro switches, which are praised for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch stands out for its utilization of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action. While the V3 Piano Pro is described as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky, the Sky V4 is characterized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
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 Dareu Sky V4 both play a crucial role in the overall typing experience. While the V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, the Sky V4 opts for a POK top housing. The nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. In contrast, the POK top housing of the Sky V4 provides a smooth and clacky typing experience, with exceptional durability and resistance to wear and shock. Both materials have their unique benefits, with nylon offering a rounder sound and POK providing a smoother feel.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the V3 Piano Pro and Sky V4 feature nylon materials. This means that they share the quality of eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, contributing to the overall typing experience. By utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, both keyboards ensure a consistent sound profile throughout the typing process, enhancing the overall tactile feedback for the user.
The differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and Dareu Sky V4 contribute to distinct typing experiences. While the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing may provide a rounder sound profile, the POK top housing of the Sky V4 offers a smoother and clacky typing feel. Despite these differences, both keyboards prioritize durability and sound absorption in their housing materials. Whether it's the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro or the POK top housing of the Sky V4, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with reliable performance and satisfying sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, both have an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them similar in terms of force requirements. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force feedback from both switches. The weight of a switch can impact typing comfort and performance, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more substantial typing experience. In this case, both the V3 Piano Pro and the Sky V4 fall into the medium-light category, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to factors other than actuation and bottom out forces, such as design aesthetics or additional features.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, making them relatively similar in terms of key press depth. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, which is favored by gamers for faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of these switches to feel abrupt compared to traditional 4.0mm travel distances. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for key press depth 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 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 Piano Pro linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep, rich, and bass-heavy tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound, with the V3 Piano Pro offering a more lively and crisp sound, while the Sky V4 provides a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives a lively feel with rebound when pressed. However, the V3 Piano Pro switch also offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall smoothness of typing. In contrast, the Sky V4 switch does not have additional descriptors for feel, suggesting that it may not offer the same level of buttery smoothness and refined typing experience as the V3 Piano Pro switch.
Considering all the available information, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch stands out for its snappy and lively sound signature, smooth actuation, and creamy, polished feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch excels in offering a deeper, thocky sound profile and a bouncy feedback sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with the V3 Piano Pro offering a more dynamic and tactile typing experience, while the Sky V4 provides a rich and deep auditory experience. Depending on what qualities you prioritize in a switch, both options offer unique characteristics that can cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a snappy and resonant sound with a smooth tactile experience, the V3 Piano Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, thocky sound with a bouncy feel, the Sky V4 could be more to your liking. Consider your typing style and personal preferences when making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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