Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock Light Tactile mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that provides a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth feel, making it appealing for those who enjoy an auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a gentle tactility that is a refreshing change from the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. While the Cream Yellow Pro is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', the Light Tactile switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished'. Both switches have their unique appeal and advantages, catering to different preferences in typing experience. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating 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 especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches have the same material for their top housing, they may still differ in terms of design and overall typing experience.
On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Light Tactile's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch, making it an important factor to consider when choosing between the two switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock Light Tactile may result in distinct typing experiences. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing may offer a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Light Tactile's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding how each housing material affects the sound and feel of a switch can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Durock Light Tactile switch with a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires 60 grams while the Light Tactile switch needs 67 grams, making the Light Tactile switch the heavier option overall. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force, providing a smooth typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing touch may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while users who enjoy a more substantial feel to their keystrokes may opt for the Durock Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Light Tactile switch. The Cream Yellow Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for its poppy, clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a gentle, jelly-like sound signature, creating a more subtle auditory sensation. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Cream Yellow Pro being more lively and the Light Tactile being more subdued.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth and low-impact typing experience. In contrast, the Light Tactile switch is labeled as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing feel. Both switches excel in delivering a comfortable typing experience, with the Cream Yellow Pro offering a more responsive and lively feel, while the Light Tactile provides a softer and more subtle tactile feedback.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow Pro is best suited for those seeking a poppy and clacky sound paired with a responsive and low-impact typing experience, while the Light Tactile is ideal for individuals looking for a gentle and smooth typing feel with a subdued sound profile. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Cream Yellow Pro offering a more vibrant sensation and the Light Tactile providing a gentler touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the kind of typing experience you seek.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiast looking for a switch with a smooth and creamy tactile feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactility with a soft sound profile, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
Mentioned in this article
