Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Durock T1 mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two tactile options that offer unique characteristics. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is praised for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, providing a satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile that is complemented by a smooth tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is favored for its comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While both switches offer a tactile typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro leans towards a more lively and audible feedback, while the Durock T1 offers a softer and more neutral typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Durock T1 switches are quite similar, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually pleasing element to the switches. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This creates a more rounded and duller sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
While both switches share similar polycarbonate top housings, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing sets it apart from the Durock T1. This difference in housing materials results in a unique typing experience for each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro absorbs more sound compared to the harder plastic of the T1, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a more muted typing sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when typing, adding a level of precision to the keystrokes.
In terms of functionality, the split between the bottom and top housing materials in a switch can affect the overall typing experience. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing allows for a balance in sound profile, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Durock T1 maintains consistent sound characteristics with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, offering a more uniform typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch to the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that they differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the T1, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, while the T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Durock T1 for a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style, with the lighter V3 Cream Blue Pro providing a smoother typing experience compared to the heavier T1.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro is preferred by many gamers for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the T1 may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, if you value a quicker response time, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the better option, but if you enjoy a more pronounced keypress feel, the Durock T1 could be the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue 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 Blue 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are known for their distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, creating a lively and audible feedback that pairs well with the creamy tactile sensation they offer. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switches are described as low-pitched, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on the type of sound experience you prefer in your mechanical keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are highlighted for their accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished characteristics, offering a medium tactile sensation that is not overwhelming yet provides a satisfying level of tactility. Conversely, the Durock T1 switches are noted for their stepped, accented, and polished qualities, giving users a mild tactile experience with smooth and refined key travel. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience that is responsive and comfortable, making them ideal choices for those who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Durock T1 switches each bring their own unique sound and feel qualities to the table, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Whether you prioritize a distinct sound profile with a smooth tactile sensation or prefer a low-pitched sound with a mild tactile feedback, both switches offer quality options that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve with your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch or the Durock T1 tactile switch, keep in mind the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option with a lively and audible feedback, along with a creamy tactile sensation. On the other hand, the T1 offers a more comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a poppy sound profile, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the better option for you. However, if you lean towards a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the T1 could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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