Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) are standout options to consider. The Akko Cream Blue Pro V3 switches offer a unique blend of a poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth tactile sensation that is appealing to budget-conscious users looking for quality. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is favored for its maximum tactility, providing a sharp and satisfyingly clean clack when typing. While the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, polished, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is categorized as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, invigorating. Both switches have their strengths and unique characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), it is clear that both switches offer unique qualities. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. While the top housing materials differ in sound profile, both switches offer a visually appealing translucent quality, with the polycarbonate being ideal for RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the V3 Cream Blue Pro boasts a nylon bottom housing which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM bottom housing, offering a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches provide a unique typing experience with their respective bottom housing materials absorbing sound differently.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in composition and resulting sound profiles, both switches offer a unique and satisfying typing experience. The use of polycarbonate and POM in the top housing creates distinct sound characteristics, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro providing a sharper sound while the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, absorbing sound in different ways to create a fuller sound profile. Ultimately, whether opting for the V3 Cream Blue Pro or the POM T1 (Sunflower), users can expect a visually appealing and acoustically pleasing switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. These differences in force can significantly impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the V3 Cream Blue Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may favor the heavier push feel of the POM T1 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a deeper and more satisfying key press for those who prefer a longer travel distance. In this case, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the shorter option, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) 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 Blue Pro switch provides a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant higher-pitched sound profile that provides a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a livelier or a sharper sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile sensation with a spring-like bounce, high responsiveness, and a smooth key travel. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is characterized as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, providing a strong and crisp tactile feedback with a reactive and immersive typing sensation. Depending on the level of tactility and responsiveness you prefer, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different typing styles.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Cream Blue Pro provides a lively and creamy tactile experience with a poppy sound profile, the POM T1 offers a sharp and resonant tactile feedback with a clean and sharp sound profile. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a balance of both, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore different mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a user looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique sound profile and smooth tactile feedback, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer maximum tactility with a sharp tactile bump and clean clack, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. So, consider these factors carefully before making your selection to ensure a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
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