Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Daybreak both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bouncy and chirpy typing experience with a polished feel. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak offers a heavier 67g actuation force, resulting in a muted and low-pitched sound that is ideal for quieter environments. While the Crystal Pro is known for its silky smooth typing experience, the Daybreak provides a heftier touch for those who prefer a more substantial feel. 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
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Daybreak feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that want to showcase RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the V3 Crystal Pro opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Daybreak uses a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Daybreak elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of construction, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Daybreak play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. While both switches benefit from a polycarbonate top housing for its sharp and clear sound profile, the V3 Crystal Pro's use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound experience throughout the keypress. On the other hand, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to users looking for a more subdued sound profile. The choice between polycarbonate and nylon bottom housings ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Daybreak aim to provide a premium typing experience with their choice of housing materials. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate for a sharper sound profile or the softer nylon for a deeper sound, each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the top housing may have a more significant impact on the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to their overall performance and sound quality.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro is the lighter of the two options. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Daybreak's actuation force is not specified and has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it the heavier option. When it comes to actuation force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Daybreak, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more sensitive response. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Daybreak's heavier bottom out force may be more appealing. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the key presses.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch have a travel distance of 3.8mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel before the switch actuates. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of key press feel and actuation point. The consistent travel distance of 3.8mm across both switches ensures that typists will get a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose to use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak 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 Crystal Pro linear switch is characterized by a chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, providing a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, perfect for environments where noise reduction is a priority. When it comes to the feel of the switches, the V3 Crystal Pro is known for its bouncy and polished sensation, offering a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel experience. Similarly, the Daybreak switch is also described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Overall, while both switches have their own distinct qualities in sound and feel, they both offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Durock Daybreak switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy and polished typing experience with a bright and chirpy sound, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a polished feel with a muted, low-pitched sound for a quieter typing experience in a workspace setting, the Daybreak switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to take into account what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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