Durock Blue Lotus vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Blue Lotus is renowned for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro is a budget-friendly option with a poppy and clacky sound, combined with smoothness that impresses right out of the packaging. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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 long spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro lies in the top housing material. The Blue Lotus features a unique Modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the V3 Cream Black Pro uses a polycarbonate top housing. The Modified PC and UPE Blend utilized in the Blue Lotus offers a premium feel, while the polycarbonate in the V3 Cream Black Pro creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Despite this difference, both materials are known for their stiffness, contributing to a clear and resonant sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Durock Blue Lotus and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a duller and rounder sound compared to other housing materials. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with a unique sound profile.
While the top and bottom housings of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro differ in material composition, they both contribute in their own ways to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a premium typing experience with their unique housing materials, catering to users who prioritize sound profile and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch have similar actuation forces and bottom out forces, both requiring 55 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch in terms of force required. However, the Blue Lotus offers a tactile feel, while the Cream Black Pro provides a linear feel. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, which may appeal to users who prefer a slightly heavier key press for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for tactile feedback or linear smoothness.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, the Blue Lotus has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Black Pro has the shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their respective travel distances, catering to the preferences of different users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue Lotus for $4.57.
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 Blue Lotus switches offer a deep and rich bassy profile during key presses, creating a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches produce a high-pitched and sharp sound, which may cater to individuals who prefer a crisper sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, taking into consideration factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are known for their accented tactile feedback, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These switches also boast a snappy response, making typing feel more responsive and dynamic. Conversely, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches offer a creamy and smooth typing experience, thanks to the lubricant applied at the factory. This results in a buttery sensation that allows fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. Additionally, the bouncy and snappy nature of these switches provides a lively feel with each keystroke, further enhancing the typing experience.
Considering the sound and feel qualities of the Durock Blue Lotus and Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches, it is evident that they cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Blue Lotus offers a bassy sound and a tactile, snappy feel, the Cream Black Pro delivers a high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that will enhance the mechanical keyboard typing experience, ensuring that newcomers can find a switch that meets their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch or the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, you should first determine your preferences in terms of tactile feedback and sound. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a tactile switch with a snappy and accented feel, then the Blue Lotus switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and prioritize a creamy, bouncy, and polished typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, then the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preference when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your needs and typing style.
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