Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, and the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, offer unique features to consider. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Koala offers a stepped tactility, giving a pronounced bump without being overwhelming, and a bit of resonance without excessive loudness. While the Crystal Pro is bouncy and chirpy, the Koala is polished, low-pitched, accented, neutral, stepped, and stiff. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific qualities will help you decide on the best switch for your typing needs.
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
4.00 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 housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Koala both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, offering a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic which results in clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting into the design. However, the Durock Koala differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches feature polycarbonate for the top housing, showcasing similar qualities such as a sharper sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting, the difference in their bottom housings sets them apart. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing focuses on a clear and resonant sound profile, while the Durock Koala's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. This contrast in materials results in a different typing experience for users, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Koala comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile, with the added benefit of being translucent for RGB lighting effects. However, the decision between the polycarbonate bottom housing in the V3 Crystal Pro and the nylon bottom housing in the Koala will determine the depth and fullness of the sound produced. Whether one prefers a more resonant and clear sound or a deeper and fuller sound will dictate which switch is more suited to their typing preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the Koala requires 67 grams, making it slightly heavier. Those who prefer a softer touch may lean towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Koala may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered a traditional travel distance, with the Koala being closer to the standard 4.0 mm mark. Gamers may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Koala with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique and chirpy sound signature, giving them a distinct acoustic profile that sets them apart. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, suitable for a variety of purposes. When considering sound, it's important to note that other factors like the keyboard and keycaps also play a role in the overall auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is described as bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Koala tactile switch is also described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel, while also offering an accented and stepped tactile sensation that falls between being tactical and overly subtle. Additionally, the Koalas are noted for being stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate compared to other switches, which can influence the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Pro switches excel in providing a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Koala switches strike a balance between a pronounced bump and reduced friction for a satisfying tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, the right choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a brighter and more responsive typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced bump with a bit of resonance and a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Durock Koala is the better option. Both switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics, so it's important to consider what suits your typing needs best. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, whether you prioritize a chirpy and bouncy typing experience or a low-pitched and accented one.
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