Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Dolphin present two distinct yet appealing options tailored to different preferences and environments. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump and a loud, bassier sound signature, making it an ideal choice for users who enjoy the satisfying feedback and audible response often associated with typing on tactile switches. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin stands out as a silent linear switch, perfectly suited for office settings or any workspace where noise control is paramount. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a substantial feel that balances precision with a delightful resistance, catering to those who prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience. Both switches have their unique advantages depending on your typing style and intended environment; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best determine which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Dolphin, it becomes evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which greatly influences their acoustic profiles. Polycarbonate is recognized for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound signature. This characteristic is key in both switch designs, as the translucency of polycarbonate also lends itself well to RGB lighting effects, making both switches visually appealing when illuminated. Consequently, users can expect a similar auditory experience when pressing the top of either switch, with vibrant sounds that are bright and resonant.
Contrasting the top housings, we encounter a striking similarity in the materials used for the bottom housings of both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Dolphin. Both switches utilize nylon, a classic choice for bottom housings that results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon effectively dampens sound vibrations, contributing to a more subdued and rounded auditory experience. This resemblance in housing materials ensures that while the top housing provides clarity and brightness, the bottom housing mitigates it by adding warmth and depth to the sound, allowing users to enjoy a balanced auditory experience regardless of the switch.
Although the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches results in slightly different auditory experiences for various aspects of the keypress, they effectively complement each other. The top housing influences the sound produced upon release, while the bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out experience. With both switches made from the same materials in their respective parts, users can expect a cohesively crafted feel across both models, but with nuanced differences that cater to personal preferences in sound and tactile feedback. Thus, while both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Durock Dolphin share fundamental similarities, they provide a unique character in terms of acoustics and feel due to their specific housing combinations.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch with the Durock Dolphin linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who appreciate a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a heavier feel, although its actuation force is unspecified. As a result, the Dolphin switch offers a more substantial typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push. Overall, the Akko switch is lighter and better suited for those seeking comfort over long durations, while the Durock Dolphin provides a denser feel, catering to users who desire a firmer keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Durock Dolphin has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Dolphin switch offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who enjoy a deeper keypress. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may cater to gamers and those who prefer quicker response times, making it ideal for fast-paced scenarios. As shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, users can expect a snappier feel with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, whereas the Dolphin may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch stands out with its loud acoustics and a bass-heavy tonal quality, creating an invigorating auditory experience that's sure to attract attention. This is ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound profile while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin switch is designed to be muted, producing a significantly softer and quieter sound. Its low-pitched nature provides a mellow tone that minimizes the typical clacky noises associated with mechanical switches, making it particularly suited for environments where noise control is essential, such as offices. These differences in sound character can significantly influence the overall experience, depending on the user's preference for auditory feedback during keypresses.
In terms of feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts a substantial tactile bump that enhances the typing experience by providing clear feedback with each press, which many tactile switch enthusiasts appreciate. However, the exact nature of this tactile sensation is not specified. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switch offers a polished feel, which ensures a smooth and refined typing experience. The smooth key travel, attributed to its design and finishing, reduces friction for a more effortless press. While both switches might cater to different tactile preferences, the tactile feedback of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may appeal to those seeking clear actuation points, whereas the Dolphin excels in smoothness and a more subtle feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch will come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. If you enjoy a louder, more tactile experience, the Creamy Purple Pro is the way to go. Conversely, if you prefer a quieter, more refined typing experience, the Dolphin is an excellent choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to varied user needs, ensuring that whether you seek auditory feedback or a seamless keypress, either option can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and use cases. If you prefer a switch that provides significant tactile feedback and enjoy a more pronounced sound profile, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent choice. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it suitable for fast typists and gaming enthusiasts who appreciate the tactile bump for clear actuation. Additionally, if you're in a setting where the auditory experience is important to you, the bass-heavy sound signature can enhance the enjoyment of each keystroke. On the other hand, if you need a switch that excels in quieter environments, such as offices or shared workspaces, the Durock Dolphin is your best bet. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams, it provides a satisfying resistance without the noise associated with more traditional switches. The polished finish of the Dolphin ensures a smooth typing experience, allowing for precise control while minimizing distractions caused by sound. Ultimately, consider your typing style, environment, and whether you prefer tactile feedback or a smoother, quieter operation when making your choice.
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