Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Ice King Linear each offer distinct tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its pronounced tactile bump, providing an invigorating feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate, coupled with a loud, bass-heavy sound signature that satisfies those who enjoy auditory feedback. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear is designed for a seamless, frictionless typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, resulting in a silky smooth travel that appeals to users seeking a more subdued and polished keystroke. While the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be favored by those who thrive on tactile cues and sound, the Ice King Linear attracts users who prefer a quieter, smoother typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Ice King Linear, the most notable difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for clearer acoustics when keys are released. In contrast, the Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice that generates a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, leading to a sound profile that is noticeably rounder and mellower compared to the brighter resonance of polycarbonate.
While the top housings diverge in material and resulting sound characteristics, both switches share nylon for their lower housings. This commonality brings forth a deeper, fuller sound profile in each case, as both nylon bottom housings offer excellent sound absorption qualities. Regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches will exhibit similar tonal qualities during the key press. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing is crucial for maintaining a rich auditory experience across both switch types, enhancing the overall typing feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles for each switch, while their shared nylon bottom housings unify their acoustic characteristics when pressed. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro's polycarbonate top provides clarity and brightness, ideal for RGB lighting applications, whereas the Ice King Linear's nylon top delivers a rounder acoustic response. Therefore, users looking for a crisper sound may prefer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, while those valuing a deeper, more muted sound may gravitate towards the Durock Ice King Linear. Both options provide a compelling typing experience, attesting to the important role that housing materials play in keyboard acoustics and performance.
Weight
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch provide contrasting experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a notably light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who favor prolonged typing sessions with minimal strain. In contrast, the Ice King Linear features a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial feedback from their switches. While both switches fulfill their respective purposes effectively, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro allows for a more effortless keystroke experience, perfectly suited for long hours of work or gaming. Meanwhile, the Ice King’s heavier force enhances the tactile sensation for those who prefer a firmer push. Thus, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter option, whereas the Ice King Linear is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, notable differences emerge. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Ice King Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Creamy Purple Pro the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users who favor rapid response times due to its reduced travel distance. In contrast, the Ice King Linear's 3.5 mm travel distance may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing or gaming, providing a deeper actuation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches hinges on personal preference regarding switch responsiveness and tactile feedback, with the Creamy Purple Pro being more suited for those who appreciate a quicker, more abrupt experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
The Durock Ice King Linear 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 Linear 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
The acoustic qualities of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch present a clear contrast. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by a loud sound signature that leans towards the bassier side, offering a gratifying auditory experience, particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a more pronounced click with tactile feedback. In contrast, the Ice King Linear is known for its subdued sound profile, producing a dampened noise that is less intrusive yet still noticeable. The Ice King's subtle sound signature allows for a quieter typing experience, making it more suitable for shared workspaces or environments where noise is a concern. However, it's important to remember that the sound produced by either switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
When it comes to tactile feel, the two switches again diverge significantly. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is designed with a substantial tactile bump, providing a pronounced feedback that users can feel distinctly with each keystroke. This tactile response caters to typists seeking a more interactive experience, enhancing both typing accuracy and satisfaction. Conversely, the Ice King Linear is built for an exceptionally smooth typing experience characterized as silky and frictionless. With its polished and creamy sensation, it aims to deliver a seamless glide over the keys, reducing resistance and friction to ensure fluid key travel. This creates a peaceful and effortless typing experience, contrasting sharply with the tactile engagement of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro.
In conclusion, selecting between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Ice King Linear switches comes down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. If you favor a loud switch with a strong tactile bump that elevates the interaction with each keystroke, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if a smooth, subdued typing experience that prioritizes quietness and seamless motion appeals to you, the Ice King Linear will meet those needs. Both provide distinct typing experiences that cater to different users, ensuring that whether you lean towards tactile feedback or effortless gliding, there is satisfaction to be found in either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile experience with a pronounced bump and don’t mind a louder sound profile, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent option. Its lighter 50-gram actuation force makes it suitable for those who prefer a less demanding keystroke, allowing for quicker typing with a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, quiet, and effortless typing experience, the Durock Ice King Linear will serve you well. With a heavier 62-gram bottom-out force, it offers a more grounded feel that can be appealing for typists who prefer a bit more resistance and a subdued auditory presence. The silky, frictionless texture of the Ice King Linear allows you to glide over the keys with ease, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences in sound, feel, and the weight of your keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
