Durock Blue Lotus vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus, a tactile switch, and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Lotus switches from Durock are characterized by their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making them ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel while typing. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm and a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, these switches not only offer performance but also captivating visual appeal. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switches from Akko stand out for their fully polycarbonate construction, which influences their sound and feel, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature and a silky smooth typing experience. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that appeal to different users' 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
55g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a premium feel and likely offers a unique tactile experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. While both materials offer durability and aesthetic appeal, the PC & UPE Blend may provide a softer feel compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Blue Lotus's nylon bottom housing is praised for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This may result in a more muted and rounded sound when compared to the sharper and crisper sound profile of the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. While nylon absorbs more sound, the stiffer polycarbonate may produce a more resonant and clear sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both materials have their own unique advantages, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will affect different aspects of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This split in characteristics between the top and bottom housings highlights the importance of selecting housing materials that complement each other to achieve the desired sound and typing experience. Ultimately, both the Blue Lotus and V3 Crystal Pro offer distinct housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles and tactile responses.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, which has an actuation force of 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Lotus requires 65 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro needs 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for a wide range of users. The Blue Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier forces, while the V3 Crystal Pro offers a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. The slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant to most users, as it falls within the realm of personal preference. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Blue Lotus with its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results regardless of their choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Lotus for $4.57.
The Akko V3 Crystal 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 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a bassy tone that provides a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, mimicking the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as chirpy, with a unique acoustic signature that includes a little squeak, setting it apart from other switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself but can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Blue Lotus switch is characterized as accented, snappy, and stepped. This means that it offers a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, along with super responsiveness and a two-stage tactile feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bouncy and polished feel. The bouncy sensation offers a spring-like feedback, giving the keys a lively bounce when pressed, while the polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus excels in providing a bassy sound and an accented, snappy tactile experience, while the V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience. However, keep in mind that regardless of the switch chosen, consistent quality in sound and feel can be achieved through a well-balanced combination of keyboard, keycaps, and switch choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch or the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile feel with swift responsiveness and vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-linear switch with a bright and chirpy sound signature and a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro switches might be more suitable. Consider the sound profile and feel that best align with your preferences to make the right decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose based on what suits your needs best.
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