Durock Light Tactile vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and the Akko V3 Piano Pro stand out as distinctive options. The Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a gentle tactility that sets it apart from sharper tactile switches on the market, providing a smooth and angelic typing experience accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches are recognized for their snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to keystrokes while maintaining a smooth actuation for a pleasing tactile feel. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique characteristics that appeal 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housings. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics. However, where they differ is in the top housing material used. The Light Tactile utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, leading to a duller and rounder sound. These differences in top housing material contribute to varying sound experiences when using the switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Durock Light Tactile and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both switches offer their own unique sound profiles based on the properties of the materials used. The polycarbonate top housing of the Light Tactile produces a more clear and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches further enhance the sound profile by absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. Overall, while the housing materials may differ, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and distinct typing experience for users.
In terms of construction, the differences in housing materials of the Light Tactile and the V3 Piano Pro allow for specific characteristics to shine through in each switch. The split between the bottom and top housing materials results in a unique blend of sound qualities for both switches. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more when bottoming out keys, providing a deeper sound profile. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing keys, influencing the overall typing experience. Despite these differences, users can expect a quality typing experience from both switches, each with its own distinctive sound profile based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams. The Light Tactile switch is better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the V3 Piano Pro switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their differences in actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with the option to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Light Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro switch. The 4 mm travel distance on the Light Tactile switch provides a more traditional key press feel, while the 3.5 mm travel distance on the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a slightly shallower key press. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro switch, while those who prefer a more gradual key press may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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.
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 Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginner or advanced, at home or in a work setting. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a clacky and resonant sound that adds a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. Both switches have their unique auditory charms that cater to different preferences, with the Light Tactile leaning towards a more subdued sound and the Piano Pro offering a more pronounced and sharp auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactility and feedback, ensuring a comfortable typing session. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience that is smooth, buttery, and spring-like in its feedback. These qualities contribute to a lively and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Light Tactile provides a gentle and angelic tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Piano Pro linear switch delivers a snappy and resonant sound with a bouncy and creamy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering distinct qualities for an enjoyable typing experience. You can expect a pleasant and satisfying typing experience regardless of which switch you choose, as both are crafted to provide a high-quality performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches, consider the subtle nuances that differentiate them. If you prefer a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy sound signature with a smooth actuation, the V3 Piano Pro switch with its lively and crisp keystrokes may suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and sound preferences. Whether you opt for the Light Tactile for its mild and polished feel or the V3 Piano Pro for its bouncy and creamy sensation, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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