Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) 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 POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, both options offer distinct advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cream Yellow Pro V3 switches are a budget-friendly choice known for their satisfying combination of poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel, perfect for those who appreciate a creamy tactile experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch boasts maximum tactility, providing a sharp tactile feedback and clean clack during typing. While the Cream Yellow Pro V3 offers an easy-to-press and bouncy experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a resonant and sharp feel. 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
N/A
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
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 terms of housing materials, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both offer unique sound profiles. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the POM top housing of the POM T1. The POM top housing of the T1 produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a contrasting auditory experience to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. However, both switches offer a pleasing and unique sound profile that caters to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the POM T1 features a POM bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the T1 contributes to its deep and muted sound profile. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings offer a unique sound experience that complements the top housing to create a well-rounded typing sound.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the POM T1 provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM material for both top and bottom housings. If a user prefers a brighter sound profile, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the better option, while those who prefer a deeper and more subtle sound may lean towards the POM T1. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality materials that cater to different sound preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch features a 50-gram actuation force and a 60-gram bottom out force, providing a medium level of resistance. In comparison, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has an unknown actuation force but a heavier 67-gram bottom out force, falling into the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro for longer periods of use, whether for work or gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out force levels, ensuring users can achieve their desired typing experience based on personal preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Despite this, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances commonly found in mechanical keyboards. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly faster response time for the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). Gamers who prioritize quick reactions may prefer the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro's shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press experience may opt for the longer travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key press depth and responsiveness.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch offers a poppy, clacky sound, creating a vibrant auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch provides a resonant and clean clack, with a higher-pitched sound profile for those who prefer a sharper auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth and low-impact typing feel with a spring-like feedback sensation. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump with a medium level of tactility that is reactive and immersive.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is ideal for users looking for a blend of a poppy sound and smooth feel, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch caters to those seeking maximum tactility and sharp feedback. Depending on individual preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience on mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you are on a budget and enjoy a smooth, clacky sound with a creamy tactile feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer maximum tactility and a sharp tactile bump with a clean, resonant sound profile, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, actuation force, and budget when selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs.
Mentioned in this article
