Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch with the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro is renowned for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. In contrast, the White Lotus switches are designed with a delicate tactility that strikes a perfect balance, making them ideal for extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. While the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', 'Silky', the White Lotus is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subtle'. Both switches have their distinct advantages, appealing to different preferences. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Durock White Lotus, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality means that typing on switches that use nylon will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known to be a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches will produce a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches with harder housing materials. This similarity in bottom housing material will likely result in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches.
In contrast, the top housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Durock White Lotus differ significantly. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, while the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing. The nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on this switch quite pleasant. On the other hand, the modified PC & UPE Blend top housing of the White Lotus provides a unique and premium feel to the switch. This difference in top housing material may result in variations in sound and feel when typing on each switch, with the V3 Piano Pro offering a potentially softer and more absorbing typing experience compared to the White Lotus.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on a switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the nylon bottom housing shared by both switches may provide a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, while the differing top housing materials will likely result in distinct sound profiles when typing on the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Durock White Lotus.
Weight
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have similar actuation and bottom out forces, with the Piano Pro being slightly lighter with a 45-gram actuation force and a 55-gram bottom out force, compared to the White Lotus's 46-gram actuation force and 56-gram bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel may find the Piano Pro to be slightly lighter than the White Lotus. However, for most users, the difference in force between the two switches is minimal, and typing on either switch will yield similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. The V3 Piano Pro offers a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick feedback. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. In conclusion, while both switches offer smooth keystrokes, the Akko V3 Piano Pro is ideal for those seeking quicker responses, while the Durock White Lotus is better suited for those who prefer a more satisfying key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched profile for an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. While the V3 Piano Pro delivers a more percussive sound, the White Lotus offers a smoother and more subtle typing experience in terms of sound.
In regard to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a lively and smooth typing sensation with reduced friction and refined key travel. Conversely, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is portrayed as easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, providing gentle resistance and a low-impact typing feel that is comfortable for extended use. While the V3 Piano Pro boasts a spring-like feedback and buttery smoothness, the White Lotus offers a more approachable and gentle typing experience with minimal force required for activation.
Overall, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a snappy and clacky sound accompanied by a bouncy and creamy typing feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with an easy-to-press and subtle typing sensation, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on your individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a snappy and clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound with easy-to-press and mild tactile feedback, the White Lotus could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing experience you desire, whether it's a more lively and crisp feel or a delicate and subtle touch. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and ergonomic needs for an enjoyable and satisfying keyboarding experience.
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