Durock Dolphin vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences that cater to different preferences and needs. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch best known for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for office environments or any workspace where noise levels matter. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it offers a substantial feel that balances precision with a satisfying press. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are engineered specifically for gamers, providing effortless keystrokes and a pleasing bassy sound. These switches feature a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, crucial advantages in scenarios where every millisecond matters. Both switches offer unique characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preferences and intended use. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Durock Dolphin and the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Despite having the same material for the top housing, subtle differences in design could potentially affect the sound profile produced by each switch.
However, the Durock Dolphin and the Akko V3 Silver Pro differ in terms of their bottom housing material. The Dolphin uses a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Nylon's softer nature works to absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder overall sound. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning that both switches provide similar sound qualities when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. This shared characteristic could result in a comparable typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of construction, the split between the bottom and top housings of a switch allows each material to influence specific aspects of the typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. With this in mind, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing of the Durock Dolphin and Akko V3 Silver Pro showcases how different materials can contribute to the overall sound profile and typing feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Dolphin switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light, while its bottom out force is 62 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, which is moderately light, and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it lighter overall. The Dolphin switch offers a significant difference between its actuation and bottom out forces, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch provides a more consistent experience between actuation and bottom out forces, which may suit users who desire a more balanced typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Silver Pro has the shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Dolphin. The Dolphin's travel distance is slightly longer, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Akko V3 Silver Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who desire a more satisfying key press may lean towards the Durock Dolphin with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
The Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver 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 Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it a perfect choice for those looking to keep noise levels to a minimum in shared spaces. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch provides a high-pitched and crisp sound profile, catering more towards gamers who enjoy a sharp and distinctive keystroke sound. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch provides an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky typing sensation. This indicates that the V3 Silver Pro switch prioritizes effortless key presses, minimal resistance, and a comfortable typing experience, which could benefit users during extended gaming or typing sessions.
Taking all the available information into account, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you value a quiet and low-pitched typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin switch might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a responsive and light keypress with a pleasing high-pitched sound and various tactile sensations, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch could be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches provide unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a switch that is silent, has a medium actuation force, and offers a polished typing experience, the Dolphin would be a great choice, especially for office environments where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a switch with a light actuation force, easy-to-press keys, and a creamy or feathery feel, the V3 Silver Pro may be more suitable, especially for scenarios where speed and precision are key. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and the specific environment or use case in which you will be using the keyboard.
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