Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Dolphin stand out as popular options, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch known for its creamy, high-pitched sound and bouncy, snappy feel, making it a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option with a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin is also a linear switch but is designed to be silent, making it ideal for office environments or anyone who prefers a more muted typing experience. With a medium-heavy actuation force and a polished, low-pitched sound, the Dolphin offers precision and resistance for those who enjoy a satisfying press. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Dolphin, both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing provides clarity and resonance to the sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities to the V3 Cream Black Pro.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a dynamic sound experience. The split between the two housing materials allows for a balance in sound profile, where the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Durock Dolphin offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, we find that the V3 Cream Black Pro is the heavier of the two with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. The difference in actuation force means that the V3 Cream Black Pro will require a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke compared to the Dolphin. However, both switches offer similar bottom out forces, so users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight preferences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Dolphin has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may find the V3 Cream Black Pro more suitable for faster response times, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Dolphin. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance can make a noticeable impact for some users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile that produces a sharp and crisp typing experience when pressed. This is complemented by the switch's creamy and bouncy feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with a spring-like feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch features a muted, low-pitched sound that minimizes noise levels, making it ideal for quieter environments. The Dolphin switch also boasts a polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a muted sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is a great choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but with similar features like a polished feel, you can expect a smooth typing experience regardless of your choice. Ultimately, deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Dolphin linear switch comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, you should consider your priorities. If you value a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy sound and smooth typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you need a silent switch for a quieter workspace and prefer a switch with a bit more resistance, the Dolphin is the better choice. Both switches offer a polished finish for smooth key travel, so you can't go wrong on that front. In the end, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or noise levels in your mechanical keyboard experience. Choose wisely based on your preferences and typing environment.
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