Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Dolphin mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice distinct differences in their characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique sound and feel that is both bouncy and chirpy, offering a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switches are known for their silent operation, making them ideal for quiet office environments with their low-pitched and muted sound profile. With a medium-heavy actuation force, they offer a precise and satisfying press for those who appreciate more resistance. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses, catering to different 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
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Dolphin both feature polycarbonate as the material used for the top housing of the switches. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the V3 Crystal Pro uses polycarbonate for the bottom housing as well, the Dolphin switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the clearer and resonant sound produced by polycarbonate.
In terms of sound profiles, the V3 Crystal Pro with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing will likely offer a more consistent and clear sound both when pressing down on a key and when letting go. The sharpness and higher pitch of polycarbonate will be present throughout the typing experience. Conversely, the Durock Dolphin's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing will provide a mix of sharpness from the top housing and a deeper, fuller sound from the bottom housing. This dual-material construction may create a more dynamic typing experience with a blend of clear and duller sounds.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Dolphin utilize polycarbonate in their switch housings, resulting in a sharper, crisper sound profile. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the V3 Crystal Pro using polycarbonate for both top and bottom, while the Dolphin incorporates a softer nylon material for the bottom housing. This variation may lead to differences in sound quality and typing experience, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a more consistent sound profile and the Dolphin providing a mix of sharp and fuller sounds. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, the actuation force of the V3 Crystal Pro is 48 grams, while the Dolphin's actuation force is not specified. Both have a medium bottom out force, with the V3 Crystal Pro at 60 grams and the Dolphin at 62 grams. Choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding weight. Some may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro for its slightly lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the Dolphin for a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force, making them suitable choices for different preferences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Dolphin linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will get a similar amount of travel distance, resulting in a consistent typing experience. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will not notice a significant difference in the distance the keys travel when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a smooth typing experience with the same travel distance, providing a similar level of tactile feedback and keypress feel.
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 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 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique and distinctive chirpy sound, adding a bit of character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile, ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Crystal Pro offering a more lively and bright auditory experience, while the Dolphin provides a quieter and more subdued sound.
In terms of feel, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Dolphin switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Crystal Pro is also noted for its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a bit of bounce to your typing. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch offers a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, delivering a substantial feel that strikes a balance between precision and tactile satisfaction.
Considering all the available information, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a chirpy and bouncy typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Crystal Pro would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter switch with a more medium-heavy actuation force and a muted sound profile, the Dolphin would be more appropriate. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, consider the key characteristics of each switch. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force for a more precise and satisfying press, the Dolphin could be the better option. Ultimately, your preference for sound and feel will play a significant role in determining which switch suits your typing style and environment best.
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