Huano Acacia vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro both present compelling options for users seeking a linear typing experience, yet they cater to different preferences and auditory styles. The Huano Acacia is celebrated for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, which together ensure a satisfying and smooth typing experience right out of the box. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize consistent performance and reliability during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches appeal to budget-conscious users who still desire high-quality components; they impress with their distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth keystroke that can add a playful character to your typing experience. While both switches are linear and provide different benefits, they cater to varying tastes regarding feel and sound. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro share significant similarities, particularly in their top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for this purpose, which enhances their sound profiles by delivering sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory feedback. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant response, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a pronounced typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, providing aesthetic appeal that many gamers and typists find desirable. As a result, users of both switches can expect a similar auditory clarity when typing, showcasing the advantages of polycarbonate as a top housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro are constructed from nylon, another shared feature that enhances their overall performance. Nylon is known for its softer characteristics, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This absorption characteristic of nylon diminishes sharper sounds and creates a rounder auditory experience, allowing for a more subdued and rich feedback. The combination of the more resonant polycarbonate top housing with the absorbing nylon bottom housing allows for a nuanced typing experience, where each keystroke's tonal quality reflects the properties of both materials. Since both switches employ the same materials for their bottom housings, users will enjoy a similarly warm and rounded sound profile.
The interplay between the top and bottom housings in both the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro highlights how specific materials contribute to the tactile feedback and sound produced. By employing polycarbonate in the top housing, both switches are engineered to provide a pronounced auditory response, especially when the key is released. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing softens the impact of the keystroke, creating a well-rounded sound experience as users bottom out on the keys. Therefore, despite the switches' different names and branding, the careful selection of these materials ensures a consistent performance characteristic, allowing for similar typing experiences across both models.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Acacia switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience suitable for extended use. In contrast, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to those who favor a more substantial and tactile typing sensation. As a result, users looking for a lighter switch that allows for longer typing sessions may gravitate towards the Acacia, while those who appreciate a firmer key feel would likely opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces suggest that these switches are tailored to distinct preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, the Acacia switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Huano Acacia switch offers a more pronounced key press, catering to those who prefer a more substantial depth and tactile feedback as they type. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers and users seeking faster response times and a snappier feel. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the Akko switch would be the better option, whereas the Huano Acacia could be preferable for those who enjoy a deeper typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 per 10 switches.
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 considering the sound profile of the Huano Acacia linear switch, it is important to note that specific descriptions were not provided, leaving it somewhat vague. However, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is celebrated for its high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when activated. This makes the V3 Cream Black Pro a compelling choice for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback without the deeper, bassy tones often associated with other switches. The overall sound experience of these switches can also be affected by external factors such as the choice of keyboard housing and keycap materials, but the inherent characteristics of the V3 Cream Black Pro favor a bright and lively acoustic profile.
In terms of feel, the Huano Acacia numbers among medium-light weight switches with generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, providing a reliable and pleasant typing sensation right out of the box. While the specifics regarding the feel of the Acacia are not detailed, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches offer a multifaceted experience characterized by creamy smoothness and bounciness, giving them an added layer of responsiveness. You'll find that the combination of polished surfaces and snappy responsiveness contributes to a dynamic typing experience that feels lively and engaging. Thus, the tactile engagement of both switches aims to provide satisfactory experiences, although the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its unique smoothness and playful rebound feedback.
In conclusion, while the Huano Acacia linear switch provides a solid foundation for any typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch takes it a step further with its distinctive sound profile and a range of textural sensations. If you prefer a quieter experience with tempered sounds, the Acacia could suit you well, but for those who appreciate the engaging audio and tactile feedback, the V3 Cream Black Pro would be the clear winner. Both switches share the assurance of quality and satisfaction in their own right, making them noteworthy contenders in the realm of mechanical keyboard options.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you’re looking for a switch that is medium-light with a smooth and pleasurable feedback straight out of the box, the Acacia is an excellent option; it provides a reliable and enjoyable experience with minimal stem wobble and is also generously factory-lubricated. This makes it ideal for those who prioritize a comfortable and less fatiguing typing action over extended periods, particularly if you engage in extensive typing sessions or prefer a lighter touch. Conversely, if you lean towards a firmer typing experience with a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro might be your best bet. With a medium-heavy actuation force, these switches deliver a notable poppy sound that can enhance your typing experience, along with a creamy smoothness and a lively bounciness that makes them feel both reactive and engaging. This can be particularly appealing if you enjoy the tactile sensation of keystrokes and want a bit more resistance for precision in your typing or gaming activities. Ultimately, your selection should reflect how the tactile and auditory sensations align with your specific needs and keyboard usage style.
Mentioned in this article
