Durock Lupine vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Lupine and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lupine stands out for its linear design with two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward rebound movement. This switch produces a classic clacky sound, making it ideal for those who appreciate a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound. With light actuation force and shortened travel distance, this switch is advantageous in competitive gaming scenarios where quick responses are crucial. 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
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Two-stage long spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Lupine's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that provide similar sound profiles, the difference in their bottom housings affects the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The Lupine's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile when typing, while the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a slightly different typing experience with its duller and rounder sound. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings impact the overall sound when pressing down and releasing a key. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released.
In conclusion, both the Durock Lupine and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housings of both switches creates a sharp and resonant sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housings of each switch provide distinct sound characteristics, with the Lupine offering a deeper sound profile and the V3 Silver Pro providing a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the preferred sound and feel of typing for the individual user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option. The Lupine has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Lupine is 62 grams, which is heavier compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 45 grams. This means that the Lupine requires more force to fully press the key down compared to the V3 Silver Pro's lighter touch for bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the V3 Silver Pro would be the ideal choice. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Lupine for a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Lupine. The Lupine's 3.7 mm travel distance offers slightly more depth compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 3.3 mm distance. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may prefer the Lupine. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 comparing the sound of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, the Lupine offers a classic clacky sound profile that is described as neutral, making it suitable for most users in various settings. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro provides a bassy and high-pitched sound, catering specifically to gamers who enjoy a sharper and crisper sound when typing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the accompanying keyboard and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Lupine is noted for its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro is described as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with light actuation force and reduced friction. These qualities make the V3 Silver Pro ideal for users who prioritize comfort and responsiveness during extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different user preferences and typing styles.
Overall, while the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, they both excel in providing exceptional typing experiences tailored to different user needs. Whether you prefer a classic clacky sound with a mild and polished feel or a bassy and smooth experience with light actuation force, both switches guarantee a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, determining the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences, typing habits, and intended use case.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a switch with a light actuation force and a shortened travel distance for quick and effortless keystrokes, the V3 Silver Pro would be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Lupine may be the way to go; whereas if you prefer a high-pitched sound and an easy-to-press, creamy, or feathery feel, the V3 Silver Pro would be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard.
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