Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Piano Pro, with its linear Piano Pro switches, offers a snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck features tactile switches that offer a more subtle and gentle tactility, with a clean and crispy sound profile. While the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', the Duck switches are labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on the individual's preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the SP-Star Duck both play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The V3 Piano Pro utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Duck employs polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of polycarbonate's stiffer properties. Despite their differences, both housing materials are crucial in influencing the overall sound signature of the switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon housing may not offer the same visual appeal as the Duck's polycarbonate housing, especially when considering the use of RGB lighting. Polycarbonate's translucency makes it a sought-after material for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through clearly. The V3 Piano Pro's nylon housing, while effective in producing a specific sound profile, may lack the visual allure that polycarbonate provides, particularly in setups that prioritize customizable lighting effects.
When it comes to tactile experience, the differences between the nylon and polycarbonate housing are evident. The softer nature of nylon in the V3 Piano Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon key press, while the stiffer polycarbonate of the Duck results in a crisper and more resonant sound. These contrasting qualities make each switch unique in terms of both sound and feel, appealing to users with varying preferences in typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile, tactile feedback, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Piano Pro is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Duck's unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Duck is the heavier option with 58 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, which means that users can expect a balance between ease of typing and a satisfying tactile feedback. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Piano Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the SP-Star Duck. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Duck tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Piano Pro offers a quicker response time favored by gamers, while the Duck provides a deeper key press experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the V3 Piano Pro being more suitable for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster typing or gaming, and the Duck being ideal for users who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and use cases.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched clean profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. When comparing the two, the Piano Pro switch will deliver a more vibrant and lively sound experience, while the Duck switch will provide a cleaner and subtle typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, with spring-like feedback, smooth and buttery key presses, reduced friction, and exceptionally smooth typing feel. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a mild, buttery, and polished typing sensation, offering a more gentle and uniform keystroke experience. While both switches deliver smooth and polished typing experiences, the Piano Pro switch may offer a more dynamic and lively feel, whereas the Duck switch provides a gentler and more approachable tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch stands out for its snappy sound signature, lively tactile experience, and vibrant typing feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a cleaner sound profile, subtle tactile feedback, and gentle typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the lively and crisp qualities of the Piano Pro switch or the smooth and gentle characteristics of the Duck switch. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prioritize a more snappy sound signature and smooth actuation for a lively typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the sound and feel of the switch, as both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Consider your typing style and preferences carefully to choose the switch that best aligns with your needs.
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