Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock T1 stand out as popular options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch with a fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch known for its comfort and medium bump when pressed, resembling the sound of rain falling on a window. The T1 is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. While the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, the Durock T1 provides a comfortable and tactically satisfying feel. 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
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
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock T1 differ in their bottom housing composition. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that allows for a clear and resonant sound output. In contrast, the T1 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder overall sound profile. These differences in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the typing experience and sound output of each switch.
On the other hand, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock T1 share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches that prioritize a high-pitched sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency lends itself well to switches that incorporate RGB lighting, allowing for a visually appealing typing experience. Despite both switches utilizing the same top housing material, the overall sound and feel of each switch may still vary based on the bottom housing material used.
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock T1, it's evident that the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile of each switch. While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound, the T1's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound output. On the other hand, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, emphasizing a sharp and high-pitched sound profile ideal for RGB lighting setups. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound output is essential for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium feel. In contrast, the Durock T1 has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference - lighter switches like the Akko V3 Crystal Pro are preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches like the Durock T1 provide a more robust and substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to their different force requirements, allowing users to tailor their keyboard to their individual preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the T1's 4 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the T1 being slightly longer, the difference may be subtle but noticeable to some users. Gamers seeking quicker response times may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who appreciate a more substantial key press may lean towards the T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, giving a lively and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound with a neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer different auditory experiences that can cater to various preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prefer the bright and chirpy sound of the V3 Crystal Pro or the mellow and neutral sound of the T1.
Regarding feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch features a bouncy and polished texture that gives a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a mild tactile feedback that is not overpowering but still noticeable. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that can cater to different typing preferences, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a bouncier and polished feel, while the T1 provides a more stepped and accented tactility.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, while the T1 offers a low-pitched sound with a stepped and accented tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a bright and chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished feel or a mellow and neutral sound with a more stepped and accented tactile feedback. Nonetheless, both switches provide quality typing experiences that are sure to satisfy users looking for either linear or tactile switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider your personal preference for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and bouncy feel with a bright and chirpy sound, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and rain-like sound, the T1 tactile switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most – whether it be the unique sound and feel of the V3 Crystal Pro or the comfortable tactility of the Durock T1.
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