Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, you are essentially deciding between smoothness and tactility. The V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its budget-friendly price point and impressive smoothness, offering a satisfying poppy and clacky sound. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch provides a luxurious tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump that elevates typing to an art form. While the Cream Black Pro switch offers a bouncy and snappy feel, the Ice King Tactile switch provides a silky and frictionless touch. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
68g
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
Overall, when comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Ice King Tactile, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a similar deep and fuller sound profile from both switches. However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing material. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and translucency ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
In terms of sound characteristics, the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a distinct sound signature that is not replicated in the Ice King Tactile, giving users a unique auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, ensuring a consistent deep and fuller sound profile when keys are pressed down. This means that while the top housing may contribute to the sound on release, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing sound and feel of both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Ice King Tactile in terms of housing materials may come down to personal preference and desired sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound, along with the added benefit of RGB lighting compatibility. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile provides a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded auditory experience. Ultimately, users looking for a switch with a unique sound profile may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro, while those seeking a deep and fuller sound may lean towards the Ice King Tactile.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a key role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Ice King Tactile's 58 grams. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the V3 Cream Black Pro at 65 grams and the Ice King Tactile at 68 grams, both falling in the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel to minimize fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel for a more tactile typing experience may lean towards the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer users the ability to tailor the typing experience to their preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Ice King Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Black Pro may provide a quicker response time, which is preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the type of typing experience one desires.
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 Tactile 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 Tactile 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 offers a high-pitched and sharp click sound that is distinct and clear. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch provides a more subdued and dampened sound that is not completely silent but definitely more subtle. Depending on personal preference, the Akko switch may appeal to those who enjoy a crisper sound, while the Durock switch may be favored by those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch boasts a creamy and bouncy typing experience with smoothness akin to gliding and a lively, rebounding sensation. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch provides a silky and frictionless typing feel that minimizes resistance for effortless key presses and releases. Both switches feature a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience. Whether you prefer the lively bounce of the Akko switch or the seamless glide of the Durock switch, both options offer a premium tactile experience that caters to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch stands out for its high-pitched sound and creamy, bouncy feel, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch impresses with its subdued sound and silky, frictionless typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose between a crisp click or a quieter press and between a bouncy rebound or a smooth glide. Ultimately, whether you go for the Akko or Durock switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your sound and feel preferences in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a unique poppy and clacky sound with notable smoothness, the V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent choice, especially if you prefer a high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you value a creamy smooth typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a symphony of touch that elevates tactile typing to an art form. Ultimately, the decision between these switches boils down to your preference for sound and feel, so choose accordingly based on your individual typing preferences.
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