Durock Koala vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it’s evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. The Koalas are ideal for those who desire a tactile typing experience without the heaviness of traditional tactiles, providing a balanced keystroke with a satisfying bump and a touch of resonance. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switches are designed with gamers in mind, offering smooth and effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, along with light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and responsive gaming sessions. 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
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Both the Durock Koala and the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material of these switches will likely result in similar sound profiles and aesthetic qualities.
In contrast, the Durock Koala features a nylon bottom housing, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Despite the differences in the bottom housing materials, both switches will likely offer a unique typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in the sound and feel of typing. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing will influence both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. While the Durock Koala and Akko V3 Silver Pro differ in their bottom housing materials, the impact of these differences on the typing experience will be felt by users who appreciate the unique sound profiles and tactile feedback of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it's evident that they have distinct differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Koala has no specified actuation force, while the V3 Silver Pro has a light actuation force of 40 grams. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams for the Koala and 45 grams for the V3 Silver Pro. This means that the Koala is heavier on the bottom out force compared to the V3 Silver Pro, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is lighter on the actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing durations or extensive gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the Koala offering heavier tactile feedback and the V3 Silver Pro providing a lighter keystroke experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Koala has a longer travel distance, making it ideal for those who prefer a deeper key press and a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preference, with the Koala offering a more traditional feel and the V3 Silver Pro catering to those who prioritize speed and efficiency. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on the individual's typing preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is not too sharp or overwhelming. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, which can be preferred by some users who enjoy a brighter sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala switch is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a moderate level of tactility that is not overpowering. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch provides an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky typing experience, with a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing feel, with the Koala catering to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile bump and the V3 Silver Pro catering to gamers who value quick response times and minimal fatigue during extended use.
Overall, the Durock Koala tactile switch and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Koala provides a balanced tactile feel with a low-pitched sound, while the V3 Silver Pro offers a light linear feel with a high-pitched sound. Whether you prefer a more pronounced bump in your keystrokes or prioritize quick and effortless typing, both switches provide quality options that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Koala tactile switch or the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced bump with a bit of resonance in your keystrokes, the Koala switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and a smooth, effortless keystroke for gaming or fast typing, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch may be more suitable. Keep in mind the sound and feel characteristics of each switch as well, such as the low-pitched and polished feel of the Koala versus the high-pitched and easy-to-press feel of the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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