Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, it is essential to consider the specific characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, is widely recognized for its fully polycarbonate construction, delivering a distinct typing experience with a bright and chirpy sound signature. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch, stands out for its gentle tactility and angelic typing experience, offering a unique alternative to sharper tactile switches on the market. While the Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', 'Polished', the Light Tactile falls under 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished'. 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
52g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Light Tactile, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for light to shine through. However, the V3 Crystal Pro also utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Durock Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material of the Light Tactile results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's crisp and clear sound.
While both switches offer a unique sound profile with their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their bottom housings contribute to varying typing experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro with its polycarbonate bottom housing delivers a more resonant and clear bottom-out sound and feel, while the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic properties. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch highlights how the qualities of the housing materials impact different aspects of typing, from pressing down on a key to releasing it.
Overall, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material - polycarbonate for the V3 Crystal Pro and nylon for the Light Tactile - results in distinct typing experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a more resonant and clear sound on bottom-out, while the Light Tactile provides a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help keyboard enthusiasts choose the switch that best fits their typing preferences and overall aesthetic preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Light Tactile's 52 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams of force, while the Light Tactile is heavier at 67 grams. This difference in bottom out force gives the Light Tactile a more substantial typing experience but may fatigue the fingers faster during extended typing sessions. Both switches fall in the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between lightness for prolonged typing and heaviness for a more tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference 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 a slightly shorter option compared to the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly quicker response time which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster input feedback. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch provides a bit more depth and tactility with its longer travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key press 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 Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 chirpy and distinctive sound signature, thanks to its fully polycarbonate construction. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile that is gentle and jelly-like in nature. While the V3 Crystal Pro may stand out with its unique chirpy sound, the Light Tactile offers a more subtle and quiet typing experience that may be more suitable for a variety of settings.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is described as bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like and smooth typing experience. The Light Tactile, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished feel, with a gentle tactility that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches feature a polished finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, making them both comfortable options for extended typing sessions.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer different sound and feel experiences, they both provide a smooth and refined typing experience. Whether you prefer a chirpy and bouncy switch like the V3 Crystal Pro or a gentle and mild switch like the Light Tactile, you can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a bright, chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a gentle, angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile switch from Durock could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and key force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for a satisfying keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
