Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro, a linear switch, and the Durock T1, a tactile switch, it's important to consider their individual strengths and purposes. The V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, offering an easy-to-press feel with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, perfect for fast-paced scenarios where speed is crucial. Conversely, the Durock T1 provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and soothing rain-like sound. While the V3 Silver Pro boasts an effortlessly smooth keystroke and pleasing bassy sound, the T1 offers a satisfying tactile feedback. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Durock T1 use polycarbonate for their top housing material, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches offer similar benefits thanks to their polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro features a nylon bottom housing, while the Durock T1 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 when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. Therefore, both switches share a similarity in their bottom housing material, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
When considering the overall typing experience, the difference in housing materials between the top and bottom housing of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Durock T1 may influence the sound and feel of each switch. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite this distinction, the similar use of polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom housing ensures a reliable and consistent typing experience across both switches.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Silver Pro has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the T1's unknown actuation force. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the V3 Silver Pro provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the T1 offers a more substantial typing feel with a heavier force, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3mm, while the T1 has a longer travel distance of 4mm. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro may appeal to those who value faster response times, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the T1 may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing the key. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their respective travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their preference for responsiveness or depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 Silver Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, catering to those who prefer a more crisp and vibrant sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, reminiscent of a soothing rain falling on a window. Both switches provide contrasting auditory experiences, with the V3 Silver Pro focusing on a brighter sound and the T1 offering a more relaxed and calming tone. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, providing minimal resistance during key presses and offering a light actuation force for effortless typing. The switch delivers a creamy and silky typing experience, allowing fingers to glide smoothly across the keys with reduced fatigue. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped and accented, offering a mild tactile response with distinct stages during keystrokes. Additionally, the T1 switch is polished for a smooth and refined typing experience, minimizing friction and enhancing key travel. While the V3 Silver Pro focuses on a gentle and low-impact typing feel, the T1 provides a balanced tactile response with a smooth finish.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch present distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Silver Pro offers a high-pitched sound with an easy-to-press and creamy feel, ideal for gamers seeking a responsive and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 provides a low-pitched sound with a stepped and accented feel, suitable for typists looking for a balanced tactile feedback with a polished finish. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether opting for the bright and effortless keystrokes of the V3 Silver Pro or the soothing tactility of the T1, both switches promise a satisfying typing journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you are a gamer looking for a switch with a light actuation force and a shortened travel distance to enhance speed and responsiveness, the V3 Silver Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort and enjoy a medium bump when typing, the T1 tactile switch offers a super comfortable typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a high-pitched sound profile, the V3 Silver Pro delivers a sharp and crisp sound, while the T1 offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Be sure to try both switches if possible to see which one suits your needs best.
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