Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Dash each offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences and styles. The V3 Crystal Pro is celebrated for its fully polycarbonate construction, which gives it a bright, chirpy sound profile and a smooth, polished feel that many typists and gamers find satisfying. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a lively auditory experience paired with a responsive, bouncy keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Dash switches incorporate Hall Effect technology, offering a refined clacky sound signature alongside similarly smooth keystrokes, making them an excellent choice for users looking for innovative technology and a dynamic typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro appeals to those seeking cheerful acoustics and a traditional mechanical feel, the WS Dash brings an advanced touch with its magnetic properties and distinct sound profile. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Wuque Studio WS Dash both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, sharing a common material that fundamentally shapes their acoustic profiles. The choice of polycarbonate lends these switches a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness, which aids in producing a clear and resonant sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate serves not only aesthetic purposes but also functional ones, as it enhances the vibrancy of RGB lighting when paired with switches featuring a clear top housing. Hence, users can expect a similar auditory experience in terms of brightness and clarity when using either switch, reflecting the shared characteristics bestowed by their polycarbonate tops.
When it comes to the bottom housings, however, a divergence occurs between the two models. The V3 Crystal Pro opts for a polycarbonate material for its bottom housing as well, mirroring the sonic attributes found in its top assembly. This consistency helps to maintain that crisp sound profile across both sections of the switch. In contrast, the WS Dash utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, a material known for delivering a deeper and fuller sound due to its absorbing nature. This softer plastic produces a duller, rounder sound profile, thereby creating a more pronounced bottom-out experience when typing. As a result, while users of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro will enjoy a uniform sharpness in sound, those with the WS Dash will experience a contrast, with the bottom housing contributing to a warmer auditory feel.
In practical terms, the different bottom housing materials lead to varied sensory experiences when typing on these switches. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a cohesive sound signature characterized by clarity from both the top and bottom housings, delivering a focused typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Dash offers a more layered sound experience, where the warmth of the nylon bottom housing complements the polycarbonate top's brightness. Thus, while they share similar acoustic results due to their top housing materials, the combination of different bottom materials creates distinct auditory outcomes, enabling users to choose based on their preferable sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to diverse user preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams, compared to the WS Dash's lighter 30 grams, making the latter more suitable for users who favor a less taxing typing experience during long sessions. Additionally, while the bottom out forces are relatively close—with the V3 Crystal Pro at 60 grams and the WS Dash at 55 grams—the Pro switch still feels slightly heavier. Consequently, users seeking a more substantial and resistant typing experience may gravitate towards the V3 Crystal Pro, while those who prefer an easier keystroke action for extended use might opt for the WS Dash. Overall, if weight is a consideration, the WS Dash is the lighter option, providing a gentler touch, while the V3 Crystal Pro offers a more forceful response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there is a noticeable difference. The V3 Crystal Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the WS Dash offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the WS Dash the more responsive option, suitable for gamers who prefer quicker actuation for faster response times. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, providing a more tactile sensation while typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the WS Dash delivering a more abrupt experience and the V3 Crystal Pro offering a deeper, more deliberate keystroke.
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 Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 is characterized by a bright and chirpy sound signature that delivers a unique acoustic experience. This chirp adds a playful element to the typing experience, making each keypress feel lively and engaging. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch also boasts a bright sound profile but is described as clacky, offering a more resonant auditory feedback with each keystroke. Both switches deliver a vibrant auditory experience; however, the specific nature of their sounds differs, with the V3 Crystal Pro leaning towards a more high-pitched chirp, while the WS Dash presents a fuller, clankier tone.
When considering the feel, the V3 Crystal Pro excels with its bouncy and polished characteristics. The bounciness provides a spring-like sensation that enhances the typing experience, giving users a satisfying rebound when pressing the keys. The polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, minimizing friction and allowing for effortless key travel. On the other hand, the exact feel of the WS Dash is not specified, but given its similar focus on a smooth keystroke, it’s reasonable to expect that it could offer a comparable experience. If the WS Dash mirrors the smoothness asserted by the V3, users may also enjoy a well-rounded tactile experience.
In summary, while both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switches present a light, bright sound profile, they differ in their specific auditory nuances—chirpy versus clacky. The V3 Crystal Pro's bouncy and polished feel enhances its performance, making it lively and comfortable to type on. Although the WS Dash's tactile qualities remain uncertain, it is likely to maintain a smooth keystroke. Collectively, both switches can bring an enjoyable typing experience, ultimately catering to different auditory preferences and tactile sensations based on what users seek in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and intended use. If you enjoy a medium bottom-out force with a chirpy sound signature, along with a bouncy and polished typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro is an excellent choice. It's particularly suitable for scenarios where you value both tactile feedback and a lively acoustic profile, making it great for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch with a slightly lower bottom-out force, the WS Dash switch will be more to your liking. Its bright and clacky sound, combined with a smooth keystroke, is well-suited for dynamic typing, gaming, and an overall refined experience. Consider what you prioritize in your keyboard experience—whether it’s the clarity of sound and a bouncy feel or a smooth action with a lightweight touch—before making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits that can enhance your typing and gaming experiences, so you can’t go wrong with either choice!
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