Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch that offers a unique poppy and clacky sound, smoothness, and a budget-friendly price point, making it an excellent choice for those looking for quality on a budget. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that provides a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, perfect for noise-sensitive environments. 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
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
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), we see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite having different bottom housing materials, both switches share the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, providing a consistent sharper and crisper sound profile across the board. The split qualities of the housing materials come into play when considering the impact on the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a nuanced and dynamic typing experience, with each aspect contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share similarities in their use of polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound profile, their choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of the fullness and depth of sound. Whether you prefer a switch with a more resonant and clear sound or one that offers a deeper and rounder tonality, these differences in housing materials provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, with 55 grams versus an unknown force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent T1 takes the lead with 67 grams compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro's 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as a lighter switch may be better for long typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier switch can provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out force, with the Silent T1 being slightly heavier.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly quicker keypress due to its shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a bit more depth in each keypress, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, significantly quieter than the average mechanical switch, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches provide distinct sound qualities, catering to different preferences and environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, characterized by smooth keypresses with a spring-like feedback. Additionally, it is described as snappy and polished, providing a refined and responsive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch features a stepped and accented tactile feel, offering a medium bump with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Like the Cream Black Pro, it is also described as polished, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences, satisfying the preferences of different users.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer distinctive subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Black Pro provides a high-pitched and creamy typing experience with bouncy feedback, the Silent T1 offers a muted sound profile with a stepped and accented tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, as both switches excel in their respective qualities, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value a smooth and poppy sound profile along with a buttery typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers both tactile feedback and a quieter typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be more suitable. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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