Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, you're presented with distinctive options that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile takes tactile typing to a new level with its creamy smoothness, pronounced tactile bump, and satisfying tactile experience. While the Crystal Pro switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Ice King Tactile switch is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. 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
48g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Ice King Tactile, it is apparent that both switches feature different materials for their top and bottom housings. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile utilizes nylon for both top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the materials used differ between the two switches, they each have unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the impact of the housing material on the sound and feel of the switch. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a more resonant sound when a key is released, while the polycarbonate bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top and bottom housings both contribute to the overall typing experience, with the softer nylon absorbing sound for a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles driven by their housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Durock Ice King Tactile ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. Conversely, the use of nylon in the Ice King Tactile results in a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who enjoy a softer and more rounded typing feel. While the housing materials differ between the two switches, users can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience from both options.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ice King Tactile has an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, but the Ice King Tactile requires a slightly stronger push compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. When considering weight, users who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch both offer slightly different travel distances. The V3 Crystal Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Ice King Tactile has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Ice King Tactile has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. When it comes to typing or gaming preferences, some users may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile for faster response times, especially for gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro may be preferred by those who enjoy a slightly deeper key press. Overall, both switches offer different travel distances that cater to individual preferences, providing a unique typing or gaming experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
The Durock Ice King Tactile 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 Tactile 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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its chirpy sound signature, providing a unique acoustic experience with each press. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offers a more subdued sound, producing a dampened and subtle typing noise. While the Crystal Pro switches offer a bright and lively sound, the Ice King Tactiles provide a more refined and gentle auditory feedback. Your choice of keyboard and keycaps will also play a role in the final sound output of each switch.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy and polished, offering a spring-like sensation with smooth key travel. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile switch provides a silky and frictionless typing experience, with a stepped tactile feel that offers a unique two-stage keystroke sensation. Both switches aim to provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, but the Crystal Pro leans towards a lively and bouncy feedback, while the Ice King Tactile focuses on a refined and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Crystal Pro excels in providing a chirpy and bouncy typing experience, while the Ice King Tactile shines in offering a subdued and silky smooth feel. Whether you prefer a brighter and more energetic sound or a refined and effortless typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your individual preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump for a uniquely satisfying tactile experience, the Ice King Tactile could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
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