Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, we see distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, offering a smooth keystroke experience with a satisfying bassy sound, light actuation force, and shortened travel distance, ideal for competitive gaming where speed and precision are crucial. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch boasts innovative POK material in its construction, resulting in a deeper sound profile and a bouncy feel when typing. While the V3 Silver Pro focuses on a polished and silky typing experience, the Snow switch offers a thocky and neutral sensation. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Dareu Snow share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. However, they differ in their choice of materials for the top housing. The V3 Silver Pro utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Snow opts for POK material, known for its smooth and clacky characteristics. This contrast in top housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
In terms of durability, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers decent strength and resonance, particularly suitable for RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing boasts exceptional wear resistance and shock resistance, outperforming materials like Nylon and POM. This difference in durability can influence the longevity of the switches and their ability to withstand daily use and potential impacts. While the V3 Silver Pro may excel in visual aesthetics with its translucent polycarbonate, the Snow prioritizes longevity and durability with its POK material.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Dareu Snow ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, typing feel, and visual appeal. The V3 Silver Pro offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, perfect for those who prefer a more crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow provides a smoother and clacky typing experience with its POK top housing, ideal for those who prioritize durability and longevity. Both switches share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile, showcasing the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that there is a difference in weight between the two. The V3 Silver Pro has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Snow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The lighter actuation force of the V3 Silver Pro may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the Snow provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Silver Pro and Dareu Snow linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel, allowing for precise and accurate typing. Overall, the travel distance of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Dareu Snow linear switches is equal, providing similar results for users looking for a specific key travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 Silver Pro linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when typing, providing a pleasing bassy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, producing a deep and rich sound that is satisfying to the ears. The Snow switch also has a more neutral sound option, offering a moderate and versatile sound profile suitable for various settings. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Silver Pro switch offers an easy-to-press experience with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. These switches provide a creamy and feathery typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation that enhances the overall typing feel. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives a lively feel with each key press. While the Snow switch offers a different tactile experience than the V3 Silver Pro, both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience tailored to the user's preference.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences for users to choose from based on their preferences. The V3 Silver Pro provides a high-pitched sound and an easy-to-press, creamy typing experience, while the Snow switch offers a thocky sound and a bouncy feel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their distinct qualities, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their needs and preferences for gaming, work, or everyday use. Ultimately, both switches offer a quality typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the specific needs of your typing or gaming experience. If you are a gamer looking for switches that offer a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and effortless keystrokes, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper sound signature and innovative use of POK material for a smooth linear typing experience, the Dareu Snow is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a unique sound profile and feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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