Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Ice King Linear. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for those on a budget who still desire high-quality switches. Known for their unique poppy and clacky sound, these switches offer a smooth typing experience that is both bouncy and snappy. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switches provide a silky smooth typing experience thanks to their full nylon construction and factory lube. While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is categorized as creamy, high-pitched, and polished, the Durock Ice King Linear is described as silky, frictionless, and subdued. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater 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
55g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
20mm
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Ice King Linear, one key difference is in their top housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes polycarbonate, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Ice King Linear employs a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. While the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound for a more lively typing experience, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing provides a rounder and duller sound for a more subdued typing experience.
Another point of comparison is in the bottom housing materials of these switches. Both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Ice King Linear feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. While the bottom housing may have a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key, affecting the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials for switches like the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Ice King Linear ultimately boils down to personal preference. If a sharper and crisper sound profile is desired, the V3 Cream Black Pro with its polycarbonate top housing may be the preferred option. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and fuller sound with a more subdued typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Linear with its nylon housing materials. Regardless of the specific housing material, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different typing preferences, providing users with a variety of options to enhance their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Ice King Linear. The V3 Cream Black Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a lighter option. The difference in force between the two switches may result in a slightly lighter and smoother typing experience with the Ice King Linear, while the V3 Cream Black Pro might provide a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force for their typing needs. Both switches offer a quality typing experience, but users may find that they get similar results in terms of performance despite the slight variance in force between the two.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Ice King Linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro switch. The V3 Cream Black Pro is better suited for those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch would be more favorable for users who appreciate a bit more depth in their key press. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience, with the main difference lying in the slight variance in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch offers a more subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. Your choice of keyboard, keycaps, and other factors can also influence the overall sound of the switches.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth, buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback and a refined finish that reduces friction. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and fluid key travel. Both switches offer a similar creamy typing sensation due to lubrication and specific materials used.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch delivers a high-pitched sound with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch offers a more subdued sound with a silky and frictionless typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Durock Ice King Linear switch, you should take into account a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a unique poppy and clacky sound with smoothness in typing, the V3 Cream Black Pro would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and desire a silky smooth typing experience with full nylon construction and factory lube, the Durock Ice King Linear switch would be more suited to your tastes. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preference for sound profile, feel, and bottom out force. Consider these aspects carefully to choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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