Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock T1 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, smoothness, and budget-friendly price point. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Cream Black Pro is described as 'creamy', 'high-pitched', 'bouncy', 'snappy', and 'polished', the T1 is characterized as 'stepped', 'low-pitched', 'neutral', 'accented', and 'polished'. Each switch has its own appeal and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock T1 feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the T1's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound experience.
While both switches share similar polycarbonate top housings, the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a unique sound profile not found in the T1. The combination of the clear, resonant sound from the polycarbonate top housing and the deep, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing in the V3 Cream Black Pro creates a well-rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the T1's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing may result in a more uniform sound profile without the depth and richness provided by a nylon bottom housing.
In conclusion, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock T1 ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a combination of sharp, crisp sound from its polycarbonate top housing and deep, full sound from its nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the T1 provides a consistent sound profile throughout, with the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate housing. Both switches have their own strengths and unique characteristics, catering to different preferences in keyboard sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that the T1 is the heavier of the two with a bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the V3's 65 grams. Additionally, the actuation force of the V3 is 55 grams, while the actuation force of the T1 is unknown. Both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy in terms of bottom out force. For users who prefer a lighter touch, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier bottom out force of the T1. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the T1 has a longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the typing or gaming experience based on individual preferences. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the V3 Cream Black Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the T1 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages depending on the user's preference, but the T1 provides a slightly longer travel distance than the V3 Cream Black Pro.
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 T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 offers a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that may appeal to users looking for a quieter and smoother typing sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can be further enhanced or altered depending on the keyboard and keycap combination used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lively and responsive feel. The Durock T1 tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a more subtle tactility with distinct stages in the keystroke and a medium amount of tactility that is neither overpowering nor subtle. Both switches aim to provide users with a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience through different tactile and responsive attributes.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Cream Black Pro excels in providing a high-pitched and creamy typing experience, the T1 stands out with its low-pitched sound and stepped tactility. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, allowing for a personalized and tailored mechanical keyboard setup suited to each user's specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider the differences in sound and feel to cater to your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a high-pitched sound profile and enjoy a creamy, bouncy, and snappy feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with a stepped and accented feel, the T1 could be more suitable for your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and what specific qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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