Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that both switches offer unique features suited for different preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is praised for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) appeals to those who value a tactile switch with reduced noise, offering a medium bump and subdued audio feedback for a more muted typing experience. While both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. 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
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While both switches share this key feature, their differences lie in the bottom housings. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics as the V3 Lavender Purple Pro.
Despite both switches having the same polycarbonate top housing, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) each provide a unique typing experience due to their differing bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro contributes to a softer and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. This creates a more rounded sound when typing on the switch. Similarly, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its nylon bottom housing offers a similar deep and full sound experience, ensuring a pleasant typing sensation for users. While the top housing exerts influence on the sound upon key release, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials within a mechanical switch can greatly impact the typing experience for users. With the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, suitable for RGB lighting effects. The incorporation of nylon bottom housings in both switches further enhances the sound characteristics, providing a deeper and fuller typing experience. Ultimately, whether opting for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro or the Silent T1 (Shrimp), users can expect a satisfying typing feel and sound quality due to the quality housing materials utilized in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, one noticeable difference is the actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an actuation force of unknown grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. This means that the Silent T1 (Shrimp) requires more force to fully press the key down compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be a suitable option. Regardless of the differences in weight, both switches offer a unique typing experience that can cater to various preferences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent T1 offers a slightly longer keypress distance compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keypress with more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
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 Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 is characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile, offering a more vibrant and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a muted sound, perfect for noise-sensitive environments where a quieter typing experience is desired. The choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for sound and the environment in which the keyboard will be used.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is described as having an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. These characteristics provide a tactile yet smooth typing experience without being too overwhelming. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel. This switch offers a medium tactile bump, a cushioned bottom-out feel, and smooth key travel. The decision between the two switches will depend on the desired level of tactility and feedback during typing sessions.
Considering both switches offer unique characteristics in sound and feel, the decision between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile and a vibrant tactile feel, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the better choice. Conversely, if you value a quiet typing experience with a medium tactile bump and cushioned bottom-out feel, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the ideal switch for you. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches, consider the bottom out force and specific characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that offers a muted sound profile, a padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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