Durock Dolphin vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphins are linear switches known for their silent operation, making them ideal for quiet environments like offices. With a medium-heavy actuation force and a polished, muted, low-pitched profile, they provide a precise and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are tactile switches renowned for their higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump. Categorized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, they offer a delightful typing experience for enthusiasts. Each switch has its strengths, but when choosing between the two, it ultimately comes down to 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin and the Lavender Purple Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that differs from the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
While the polycarbonate top housing of both the Durock Dolphin and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers similar sound profiles with sharper tones, the nylon bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound depth and resonance. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience. This split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique sound experience depending on whether you're pressing down on the switch or letting go of a key. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Dolphin and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro feature polycarbonate top housings for sharp and clear sound profiles, their differences lie in the nylon bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin and the Lavender Purple Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound that contrasts with the more resonant sound of the polycarbonate top housing. This combination of housing materials in each switch creates a unique sound experience that caters to different preferences in typing feel and sound. Whether you prefer a sharper sound or a deeper tone, both switches offer a versatile typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams, making the Dolphin the heavier option in terms of pressure needed to fully press the key. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Dolphin's actuation force is unknown. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly quicker response time for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, while the higher bottom out force of the Dolphin could provide a more solid and deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dolphin. Both switches offer different weight options that cater to individual preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed down. The similarity in travel distance indicates that both switches offer a similar level of tactile feedback and keypress feel. Whether choosing the Dolphin or the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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.
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 Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great option for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming, along with a spring-like feedback sensation and super responsiveness. These qualities indicate that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch may cater to users who enjoy a more tactile and lively typing experience compared to the smoother feel of the Dolphin switch.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch stands out for its silent operation and medium-heavy actuation force, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a switch with more resistance and a quieter sound. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers a delightful combination of features such as a satisfying tactile bump and a bouncy, snappy feel, catering to users looking for a switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback and responsive keystrokes. Depending on personal preferences and working environments, both switches provide distinct qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you value a medium-heavy actuation force and a silent typing experience, the Dolphin may be the better choice for you, especially in office settings where noise levels matter. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light actuation force with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro could provide a delightful typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
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