Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, you are presented with two distinct mechanical keyboard experiences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that caters to budget-conscious enthusiasts, offering a poppy, clacky sound and smooth keystrokes for a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch provides a luxurious tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump that enhances the overall feel of every keystroke. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on your preference for linear smoothness or tactile feedback. 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
50g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock Ice King Tactile, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, offers a similar typing experience for both switches. This means that users can expect a consistent tactile feel and sound when pressing down on the keys, resulting in a satisfying typing experience for both switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro stands out with its polycarbonate material. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it the preferred choice for switches intended for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile utilizes nylon for its top housing, offering a duller and rounder sound that absorbs more noise. This contrast in top housing materials between the two switches may result in a noticeable difference in typing sound and overall aesthetic appeal.
Overall, while both switches share similarities in their bottom housing material, the use of different materials for the top housing sets them apart. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a unique and vibrant sound profile ideal for RGB lighting, while the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing offers a softer and more muted sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and aesthetics, users can choose between the two switches based on their desired typing experience and desired level of customization.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Ice King Tactile is the heavier option in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ice King Tactile has a higher actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy weight range, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while users seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ice King Tactile. Overall, considering the weight of these switches is essential in selecting the suitable option based on individual preferences for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Ice King Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch. The difference between the two switches may not be huge, but for some users, even a small variation in travel distance can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Ice King Tactile switch might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shorter and faster key press, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow Pro for $2.00.
The Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy, clacky sound that is vibrant and satisfying, ideal for those who enjoy a lively auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch provides a more subdued sound that is dampened and subtle, creating a more refined typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Cream Yellow Pro being more vibrant and the Ice King Tactile being more subdued.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities make for a smooth and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing overall responsiveness. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch is described as silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished. These attributes contribute to a smooth, effortless typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump that adds a layer of satisfaction to each keystroke. Both switches provide a unique typing feel, with the Cream Yellow Pro offering light actuation and the Ice King Tactile delivering a more tactile experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow Pro excels in providing a vibrant auditory experience and a smooth, light actuation feel, while the Ice King Tactile stands out for its refined sound profile and pronounced tactile bump. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that can be tailored to your specific needs. Ultimately, whether you choose the Cream Yellow Pro or the Ice King Tactile, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets your expectations.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer medium bottom out force and a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly heavier bottom out force, a subdued sound profile, and a smooth and refined typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, then the Ice King Tactile might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you.
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