Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Lupine. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch, offering a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine is a linear switch known for its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution when pressed and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', the Lupine is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision of which switch to choose will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Lupine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these housings creates a clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In terms of bottom housings, both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Lupine utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. Users can expect a different tactile experience when pressing down on these switches, with the qualities of the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Lupine differ in material, they both contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile feel of the switches. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing has a significant influence on the sound produced when releasing a key, creating a balance of sound qualities throughout the typing process. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback from both switches, with the choice of housing materials offering unique characteristics to enhance the typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Lupine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lupine is heavier at 62 grams, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro requires 55 grams to bottom out. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a medium-light feel, suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Lupine provides a medium resistance, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces in a switch.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly longer than the Durock Lupine linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. While the difference is minimal, it could still be noticeable to some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular among users looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 Lavender Purple Pro switch is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and sharp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch offers a classic clacky sound profile that is neutral in nature, suitable for most intents and purposes. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider the overall setup when choosing a switch based on sound preference.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium level of tactility with a lively and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Lupine switch is characterized as mild and polished, providing a more gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing experience with their respective tactile and linear qualities, catering to different preferences in terms of tactility and feedback.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch stands out for its satisfying tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile, appealing to users looking for a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch impresses with its two-stage long springs for consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement, along with a neutral sound profile that suits various preferences. Depending on whether you prefer a tactile or linear switch and the specific sound and feel characteristics you desire, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person may provide the best insight into which one aligns best with your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a more powerful upward rebound, the Durock Lupine would be the way to go. When it comes to sound, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a unique experience, while the Lupine provides a neutral or high-pitched option. In terms of feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro delivers a bouncy and snappy response, while the Lupine offers a polished and mild typing experience. Consider your preferences in sound, feel, and bottom out force to make the best choice between these two exceptional switches. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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