Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Lupine are both linear mechanical keyboard switches known for their unique characteristics. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its budget-friendly price point, offering high-quality performance with a poppy and clacky sound profile that is accompanied by remarkable smoothness. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine boasts two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution when typing, along with a powerful upward movement on the rebound. While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, the Durock Lupine provides a neutral and mild feel. Both switches have a polished sound profile but differ in terms of pitch and overall typing sensation. 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
N/A
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Lupine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. In terms of sound quality, both switches will likely produce similar results due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
However, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housing. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound profile. This means that both switches will likely have a similar typing experience and sound profile due to their shared nylon bottom housing material.
When considering the overall typing experience, the differences in housing materials come into play in terms of how they impact the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Lupine may have subtle differences in sound and feel based on the combination of their polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings. However, overall, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Lupine, which has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the V3 Cream Black Pro requires 65 grams of force, while the Lupine only requires 62 grams. This makes the Lupine a slightly lighter option when it comes to bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Lupine may be the better choice. On the other hand, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a heavier push, the V3 Cream Black Pro could be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, we find that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, whereas the Lupine has a longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a quicker and more responsive typing experience due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Lupine with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate typing feel for those who prefer deeper key presses. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences for speed and depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
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 Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine 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 distinguished by its high-pitched sound profile, which provides a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users. When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its creamy and bouncy sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lively feedback. On the other hand, the Lupine switch is characterized by its mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Overall, while the V3 Cream Black Pro excels in producing a high-pitched sound and offering a creamy and bouncy feel, the Durock Lupine offers a more neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, users can expect different experiences with these switches, but both can deliver satisfying results based on their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, high-pitched sound profile, creamy and bouncy typing feel, and budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound. On the other hand, opt for the Durock Lupine if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, a neutral and high-pitched sound profile, a mild and polished typing feel, and enjoy the two-stage long springs that provide a unique typing experience with consistent weight distribution and powerful rebound. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and budget.
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