Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch to the Durock Light Tactile switch, a notable difference arises in their typing experience. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its creamy, high-pitched, and bouncy feel, making it a favorite among budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a smooth and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a gentler tactile feedback, with a more neutral and polished feel that sets it apart from sharper tactile switches on the market. Both switches have their 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Light Tactile, both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as it is translucent, allowing for light to shine through. However, while both switches share this feature, the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a subtle variation in the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing.
On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile also features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a similar sharper and crisper sound profile as the V3 Cream Black Pro. However, the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, just like the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing. This similarity in bottom housing material may result in a comparable typing experience between the two switches, as the nylon material's impact on sound is consistent. Overall, both switches offer a balance between the sharper sound characteristics of polycarbonate and the fuller sound characteristics of nylon, providing users with a diverse typing experience.
While the top housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Light Tactile are the same, the nylon bottom housing of each switch contributes to a distinct sound profile. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a noticeable variation in sound feedback when typing on the switches. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of these switches delivers a unique typing experience that caters to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, we find some interesting differences. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Light Tactile's 52 grams, making the V3 Cream Black Pro require a bit more pressure to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the V3 Cream Black Pro is slightly lighter at 65 grams, while the Light Tactile is heavier at 67 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of force needed. Ultimately, those who prefer a slightly lighter actuation force may lean towards the Durock Light Tactile, while those who prefer a heavier bottom out force may prefer the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it a bit shorter than the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Light Tactile offers a slightly deeper press compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. This means that if you prefer a switch with a more responsive and shorter travel distance, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced key press with a longer travel distance, the Durock Light Tactile could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 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.
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
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is praised for its high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In contrast, the Durock Light Tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and sound suitable for various purposes. When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its creamy and bouncy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with a lively rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, while the V3 Cream Black Pro switch excels in delivering a unique poppy sound and smooth feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a gentle tactility and refined typing experience that may appeal to a wider range of users. Both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you prefer a smoother and poppy sound profile with a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a creamy and bouncy typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, along with a polished and mild typing experience, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be the better option. Consider your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force to ensure you select the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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