Durock Daybreak vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Daybreak offers a solid 67g actuation force, providing a heftier typing experience for those who prefer a more significant touch. Additionally, its quiet operation makes it ideal for environments where noise levels must be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch is known for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a lively and crisp typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, one key difference is in their top housing materials. The Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with polycarbonate providing a crisp sound while nylon offers a more rounded tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Daybreak and the V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This commonality in bottom housing material means that both switches will share similar characteristics in terms of the sound profile when keys are pressed down. The impact of the housing material on the typing experience can be felt in the deeper and fuller sound elicited by the nylon bottom housing in both keyboards.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Akko V3 Piano Pro play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each keyboard. While the Daybreak focuses on a sharper, crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, the V3 Piano Pro offers a deeper and fuller tone with its nylon top housing. However, both keyboards share the same nylon bottom housing, which absorbs sound and contributes to a duller sound profile. These differences and similarities showcase how housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound output of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we can see a noticeable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, making it very light in comparison to the V3 Piano Pro, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Daybreak is 67 grams, which is heavier than the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams. This means that the Daybreak offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the V3 Piano Pro provides a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing feel. Both switches have their own advantages based on individual preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Daybreak. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Daybreak linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Daybreak switch. 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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched experience, providing a softer and quieter typing sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound properties, delivering a sharp and bright sound profile with a higher-pitched tone. Depending on personal preference, the Daybreak's subdued noise level may be more suitable for quiet environments, while the Piano Pro's lively and crisp sound may be preferred for a more dynamic auditory experience.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a buttery smooth typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance the overall tactile feedback during typing, with the Daybreak focusing on a sleek and refined feel, while the Piano Pro emphasizes a lively and elastic sensation with a silky smooth touch.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Daybreak switch appeals to users who prefer a heavier actuation force with a quieter sound profile and a polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch caters to individuals seeking a snappy and resonant sound experience with a bouncy, creamy, and silky typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing style, ensuring that both options deliver a satisfying and customized typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard switch scene.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier touch and a quieter operation, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a snappy and lively sound signature, the V3 Piano Pro with its 55g bottom out force and unique auditory charm may be more suited to your taste. Additionally, if you appreciate a polished and smooth typing experience, both switches offer this quality, but the V3 Piano Pro goes further with descriptors like bouncy, creamy, and silky, providing a more varied tactile sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize typing force, sound profile, or feel, so take these factors into account to select the switch that best aligns with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
