Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Durock Mamba are both standout options in the linear switch category. The V3 Crystal Pro is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound profile along with a silky smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba pays homage to Kobe Bryant and offers a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience. While the Crystal Pro is considered 'Bouncy' and 'Chirpy', the Mamba is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Thocky'. Both switches offer a polished typing experience, but have unique characteristics that cater 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Mamba both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the V3 Crystal Pro utilizing polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings while the Mamba uses a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for the top housing and POM for the bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Mamba's blend of nylon and UHMWPE in the top housing provides a sound profile that is described as pleasant and bright, offering a different auditory experience compared to the V3 Crystal Pro.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing continues to deliver a sharp and crisp sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with its clear and resonant qualities. On the other hand, the Mamba's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, offering a unique typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing sound. Despite these differences, both housing materials provide their own distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences in terms of typing sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Mamba will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing for both the top and bottom, the Mamba provides a more unique sound profile with its blend of nylon and UHMWPE for the top housing and POM for the bottom housing. Both switches are sure to offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics that cater to varying preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams, providing a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Mamba has an unknown actuation force, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in terms of sensitivity. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a consistent level of resistance for the user when fully pressing the keys. In terms of weight, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro can be considered lighter with its known actuation force, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods where fatigue may be a concern. The Durock Mamba, on the other hand, may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. In this case, the Mamba has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Mamba being even shorter than the V3 Crystal Pro. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Mamba, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 chirpy sound, creating a distinctive typing experience with a hint of squeakiness. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a rich and creamy auditory experience, characterized by a thocky sound profile. While both switches offer different sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall sound you prefer during typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch delivers a bouncy and polished typing experience, with a lively and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a mild and polished feel, catering to a more gentle typing sensation with reduced friction. Both switches provide a sleek typing experience, but the subtle differences in bounce and smoothness may influence your preference based on individual typing habits and preferences.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Durock Mamba linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the V3 Crystal Pro delivers a chirpy and bouncy typing experience, the Durock Mamba provides a rich and thocky auditory sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer polished and smooth key travel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a high-quality typing experience for both beginners and advanced users alike.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, consider the unique qualities of each. If you value a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba could be more to your liking. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and desired typing experience. Both switches offer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, so your decision should come down to the sound and feel that suits you best. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
