Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock White Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options to enhance your typing experience. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro offers a linear switch with a unique poppy and clacky sound, coupled with exceptional smoothness, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget who still desire high-quality performance. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus provides a tactile switch designed for discerning typists seeking a delicate tactility and a perfect balance for extended typing sessions. While the Cream Black Pro is categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the White Lotus is characterized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. Both switches have their own unique features and benefits, offering different typing experiences. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock White Lotus, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a clear and resonant sound profile for both switches, creating a sharp and higher-pitched sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. While both switches share this feature, the Durock White Lotus stands out with its modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, providing a unique and premium feel compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches use nylon for their bottom housings. Typing on switches with nylon housings offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This shared characteristic results in a similar typing experience for the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Durock White Lotus, as the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile of both switches. Despite their similarities in bottom housing material, the unique features of the top housing materials set the switches apart in terms of feel and sound when typing.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are crucial in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing, with its softer nylon material, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it be polycarbonate or a modified blend, influences the sound when releasing a key, adding to the overall typing experience. While both switches share a similar bottom housing material, the differences in their top housing materials contribute to a unique typing feel for each switch.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, resulting in a medium-light touch. This indicates that the White Lotus is the lighter of the two switches, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations. In contrast, the V3 Cream Black Pro is heavier and may appeal to those seeking a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force, as well as the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Durock White Lotus tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and key press feedback.
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 White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers a mellow, low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy. Whether you prefer a more pronounced or a subtle sound profile, both switches cater to different auditory preferences, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your desired typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience complemented by a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch provides an easy-to-press and mild typing feel, perfect for minimizing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Cream Black Pro focusing on a polished and responsive typing feel, while the White Lotus emphasizes a gentle and low-impact keypress.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Black Pro excels in providing a high-pitched and creamy typing experience, while the White Lotus offers a low-pitched and easy-to-press sensation. Depending on your preference for sound profile and typing feel, both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that you can achieve a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either option. Ultimately, whether you choose the Cream Black Pro or the White Lotus, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that meets your specific needs and delivers a delightful typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, and snappy typing experience with a unique poppy and clacky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-light bottom out force, a low-pitched, easy-to-press, mild, and subtle typing experience with a delicate tactility, balanced sound profile, and vibrant RGB lighting effects, then the Durock White Lotus switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences for sound and feel, as well as your desired level of actuation force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your individual needs and enjoy a satisfying and comfortable typing experience.
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