Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock T1 offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that excels in providing a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth tactile experience, making it an affordable yet satisfying choice for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch known for its comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro leans towards a more clicky feel, the Durock T1 offers a softer and more subtle tactile response. 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
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
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock T1, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which lends itself to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this commonality in their top housings, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the T1 also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar acoustics to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock T1 differ in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the T1's nylon bottom housing offers a similar tactile experience to its counterpart. With these differences in mind, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's bottom housing may contribute more to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the T1's bottom housing may have a similar impact on typing experience but with subtle variations in sound and feel. Overall, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Durock T1 showcase the qualities of polycarbonate top housings in creating a sharp and resonant sound profile. However, the differences in their nylon bottom housings offer varying typing experiences, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the T1. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may depend on individual preferences in sound, typing feel, and aesthetics, as each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Durock T1 tactile switch, with 50 grams versus None grams for the T1. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the T1 is heavier at 67 grams compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro at 60 grams. When looking at the weight of a switch, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the T1 for a more substantial typing experience. In terms of actuation force, users can expect similar results from both switches, but those looking for a heavier bottom out force should opt for the Durock T1 tactile switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter 3.3 mm travel distance while the T1 has a longer 4 mm travel distance. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Durock T1 provides a deeper keypress experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a quicker or more deliberate keypress 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 T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 has a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, giving it a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Both switches provide a unique sound profile that can add to the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and setup factors.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The bouncy and snappy feedback of these switches enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and lively feel. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch is described as stepped and accented, offering a mild tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches are polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a poppy and clacky sound with easy-to-press and feathery feel, the T1 offers a low-pitched sound with stepped and accented tactility. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, as both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in their own distinctive ways. Whether you prefer a vibrant auditory experience or a mellow sound profile, and whether you enjoy light actuation force or mild tactile feedback, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a satisfying auditory experience and a creamy tactile feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, the Durock T1 would be a great fit for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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