Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch can make all the difference. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its pronounced tactile bump and a loud, deep sound profile that can energize your keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more dynamic and engaging feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a unique blend of tactile feedback and sound absorption, making it an ideal selection for noise-sensitive environments where stealth is a priority. With its medium tactile bump and muted audio feedback, it strikes a balance for users seeking a satisfying feel without the disruption of loud clicks. While both switches cater to tactile enthusiasts, their distinct characteristics appeal to differing preferences—one for audacious expression and the other for subtlety. 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
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both employ polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a distinctive sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. Polycarbonate’s inherent stiffness contributes to its ability to produce a higher-pitched and crisper sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more resonant auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for an enhanced visual effect when paired with RGB lighting, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits in terms of light diffusion. Thus, regardless of the switch type, users can expect similar sound characteristics from both models due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
In contrast, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features nylon. This choice of material introduces a complementary effect to the switches’ overall sound profiles. Nylon, being a softer plastic, substantially dampens sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This combination means that while the top housing of both switches promotes a clear sound when keys are released, the nylon bottom housing acts to modify the bottom-out experience significantly. This divergence results in what can be perceived as greater variance in typing feel and sound depth, creating a more rounded bottom-out sound that pairs well with the crisp release characteristic of the polycarbonate top.
When examining the overall effects of the switching mechanisms, it becomes clear that while the top housings of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Durock Silent T1 share materials, the differences in their sound profiles primarily stem from the distinct interactions of the upper and lower housing materials. As the softer nylon bottom modifies the impact of key presses, users can anticipate a fuller experience that complements the sharper high-frequency sounds produced by the polycarbonate tops. Ultimately, both keyboards balance clarity and depth, each providing a unique yet satisfying typing experience that appeals to various preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch present distinct profiles in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch that is conducive for prolonged typing and extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a bottom out force of 67 grams but an unknown actuation force, making it medium-heavy overall. This likely results in a firmer typing experience, which could appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. While the Akko V3 is designed for ease of use over long periods, the Durock Silent T1, with its higher bottom out force, may provide a more tactile feedback suitable for users who enjoy a heavier switch. Overall, if you favor a lighter switch for comfort, the Akko V3 would be the more suitable option, while the Durock Silent T1 will cater to those who like a stronger tactile push.
Travel distance
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, the travel distances differ significantly, with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro having a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) measures at 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro caters to gamers and users who prefer quicker responses, enhancing the speed and efficiency of their keystrokes. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 provides a more substantial travel distance, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper, more tactile feel, offering a more pronounced feedback when typing. Ultimately, if you are looking for a switch that promotes rapid response times, the Akko V3 would be the better choice, while the Durock Silent T1 would suit those who favor a more traditional, hearty depth in their typing 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 Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) 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 delivers a loud and punchy audio profile, characterized by a bassier pitch that resonates throughout a mechanical keyboard setup. This robust sound adds to the tactile experience, offering audible feedback that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to noise-sensitive users with its distinctively muted sound signature. Designed to produce softer auditory feedback, the Silent T1 minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical switches, making it an excellent choice for quiet environments without sacrificing the tactile experience.
In terms of feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its prominent and invigorating tactile bump, providing a visceral feedback that many users find engaging during typing and gaming sessions. It creates a sensation that is bold and commanding, ideal for those who enjoy tactile switches that make their presence felt. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a more nuanced experience with its medium tactile bump, which features a stepped design that includes a distinct two-stage feel. This allows for a smooth transition in key travel, making it neither too overwhelming nor too subtle. Additionally, the Silent T1 is noted for being polished, enhancing the smoothness during keystrokes, ensuring a refined typing experience that is both tactile and pleasant.
In summary, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) serve different preferences within the tactile switch category. While the V3 Creamy Purple Pro excels in producing a loud, bass-heavy sound and a pronounced tactile bump, the Silent T1 is ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience with its muted sound and medium tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your environment and personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, but both switches promise to deliver engaging experiences in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches should ultimately depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you enjoy a lighter keystroke with a prominent tactile bump and don’t mind the noise, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be more suited to your needs. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more engaging typing experience with a bassier sound profile. Conversely, if you prefer a switch that offers a balance of tactility without drawing attention, the Silent T1 is ideal, particularly in noise-sensitive environments where minimal sound is paramount. With its medium-heavy actuation force and muted feedback, the Silent T1 allows for a pleasant typing experience without the disruptive clack characteristic of many mechanical switches. Thus, consider your priorities—whether it's a lively typing experience with the Creamy Purple Pro or a more subtle and quieter setup with the Silent T1—as they will guide you toward the right choice for your mechanical keyboard adventure.
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