Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) each offer distinct tactile experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its prominent tactile bump and a loud, bass-influenced sound signature, making it a thrilling choice for users who enjoy pronounced feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) excels in delivering maximum tactility through its sharp and punchy feel, complemented by a crisp, satisfying clack that resonates with typists seeking precision with every tap. While the Creamy Purple Pro captivates with its invigorating sound and tactile depth, the POM T1 stands out with its snappy and resonant characteristics, appealing to those who prioritize clarity and responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), notable differences arise in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features polycarbonate for its top housing, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing for a more resonant and clear audio experience, particularly appealing for users who favor acoustic precision. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 opts for a POM top housing, which yields a deeper and more muted sound profile. This difference in material composition indicates that users looking for a pronounced click or a clear response may prefer the Akko V3, while those who favor richer, more subdued sounds might gravitate towards the Durock.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of both switches present a more aligned approach. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, a classic choice known for generating a fuller, deeper sound due to its softer composition. This design element allows for sound absorption, resulting in a rounder audio signature. Similarly, the Durock POM T1's POM bottom housing also offers a deep and muted sound profile. While the materials differ—nylon for the Akko and POM for the Durock—the resulting sound characteristics are notably similar. This similarity suggests that both switches will perform comparably when it comes to the type of sounds produced during typing, particularly in terms of how the bottom-out sounds feel and resonate.
In summary, the distinct disparities in the top housing between the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the POM T1 underline their respective sound profiles and overall typing experiences, with polycarbonate and POM providing different aural textures. However, the integration of nylon and POM in the bottom housings results in a convergence of sound qualities between the two switches, leading to a generally comparable typing experience. Consequently, users can expect uniquely differentiated auditory experiences depending on which switch they choose, with the bottom housing contributing to a similar depth and fullness regardless of the top housing material utilized. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference regarding the higher-pitched resonance of the Akko versus the deeper tones of the Durock.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) lacks a specified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This suggests that the T1 may provide a more substantial typing experience suitable for those who like a firmer keystroke. Overall, users looking for a lighter switch will find the V3 Creamy Purple Pro more appealing, while those who prefer a heavier switch with a firmer feel may gravitate towards the Durock POM T1.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, whereas the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. While the 4 mm travel distance of the POM T1 aligns with traditional switch preferences and allows for a more pronounced keystroke, the 3 mm travel distance of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro caters more towards gamers seeking faster response times. Those who enjoy a tactile, deeper feel may gravitate towards the POM T1 for its hearty depth, while those in favor of quicker responsiveness might prefer the shallower travel of the Creamy Purple Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding tactile feedback and responsiveness.
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 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 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch produces a notably loud sound signature that leans towards the bassier side, offering an invigorating auditory experience that many may find satisfying during typing sessions. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has a sharper and more resonant tone, characterized by a clean clack that is crisp and distinct with each key press. The T1's higher-pitched sound profile tends to provide an immersive auditory experience, making it great for both casual and serious typing tasks. However, since sound can vary with different keycaps and boards, both switches can offer equally enjoyable acoustic experiences depending on the chosen setup.
Feel-wise, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a large, invigorating tactile bump that enhances the overall typing experience. However, its distinct tactile feedback is less detailed compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), which is known for its sharp and pronounced tactility. The T1 provides an accentuated tactile response that is both snappy and invigorating, offering a crisp and clean tactile bump that invokes confidence with each press. Earning a reputation for its responsive feel, the POM T1 combines elements of strong feedback with a medium yet prominent level of tactility.
In conclusion, when comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), both switches present unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro excels in providing a loud, bass-rich sound and a solid tactile bump, while the POM T1 impresses with its sharp, resonant acoustics and exceptionally pronounced tactility. Ultimately, whether you choose the invigorating feel of the V3 or the snappy feedback of the T1, both switches promise engaging typing experiences tailored to varying tastes, with sound and feel nuances that are impacted by external factors such as board and keycap choices.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter actuation force coupled with an invigorating tactile bump and enjoy a louder, bassier sound during your typing experience, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for those who prioritize a more pronounced tactile feedback without the fatigue of heavier switches, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you desire maximum tactility and a more pronounced, clean clack with each keystroke, the POM T1 (Sunflower) will not disappoint. With its medium-heavy actuation force, it provides a snappier and sharper typing sensation that can significantly enhance your productivity, especially if you’re engaged in tasks requiring precision and responsiveness. By assessing your typing style, sound preferences, and overall feel, you can confidently choose the switch that aligns best with your unique preferences.
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