Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Bsun Dragon Fruit
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch are two popular options. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature and a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit switch features a long pole stem for a sharp bottom-out, making it a favorite among tactile feedback enthusiasts. While the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Dragon Fruit is labeled as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics to consider, providing users with different typing experiences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Dragon Fruit feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while the V3 Crystal Pro also utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, resulting in consistent sound quality throughout the switch, the Dragon Fruit opts for a nylon bottom housing. This nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro.
In terms of sound and feel, the difference in housing materials between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Dragon Fruit can be felt when typing on the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Dragon Fruit contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing, which is polycarbonate for both switches, will have a stronger impact on the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with varying sound profiles depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Dragon Fruit leverage the qualities of polycarbonate in their top housing to create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile that is ideal for switches utilizing RGB lighting. However, the difference in bottom housing material - polycarbonate for the V3 Crystal Pro and nylon for the Dragon Fruit - results in varying sound profiles during typing. While the V3 Crystal Pro offers a more consistent sound quality throughout the switch due to both top and bottom housing being polycarbonate, the Dragon Fruit provides a deeper and fuller typing experience with its nylon bottom housing absorbing more sound.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch's 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the Dragon Fruit needs 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy category, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, while individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance may gravitate towards the Bsun Dragon Fruit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as they both offer a comparable typing experience with slight variations in force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Dragon Fruit's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users looking for faster response times, particularly gamers. The V3 Crystal Pro's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on a key, while the Dragon Fruit's shorter travel distance may offer a quicker response for those seeking a speedier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing 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 Bsun Dragon Fruit has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dragon Fruit for $3.83.
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
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch provides a clacky sound signature with a sharp, definitive bottom-out and significant tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished feel, the Dragon Fruit switch provides a mix of accentuated, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. Whether you prefer the bright and smooth feel of the V3 Crystal Pro or the lively and engaging feel of the Bsun Dragon Fruit, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a bright and chirpy sound signature, as well as a silky smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a sharp and definitive tactile bump, along with a clacky sound signature that provides a lively and engaging typing experience, then the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch would be a better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision will come down to whether you prioritize sound and smoothness or tactile feedback and liveliness in your typing experience.
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