Huano Acacia vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two notable options are the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro. The Acacia, recognized for its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, offers a smooth, linear experience with minimal stem wobble, making it ideal for those who prefer a seamless keystroke without the interruption of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is categorized as a tactile switch, showcasing a delightful poppy and clacky sound profile that many enthusiasts love. Its tactile bump and snappy feedback provide a more engaging typing experience, particularly suited for those who enjoy auditory and tactile stimulation while typing. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Acacia prioritizing smoothness and subtlety, while the Cream Blue Pro focuses on auditory feedback and tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your unique typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches, it becomes evident that both switches utilize the same materials for their top and bottom housings, which are polycarbonate for the tops and nylon for the bottoms. This similarity means they share a distinct sound profile characterized by the properties of these plastics. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches is designed to enhance the overall sound quality, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which allows for a clearer and more resonant acoustic output. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting, delivering an aesthetically appealing glow that enhances the visual experience of both switches.
On the contrary, the nylon bottom housing of both switches fosters a different audio experience, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a dulled and rounder auditory experience. As such, the bottom housing plays a pivotal role in defining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. While both the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro embody a similar construction of top and bottom housings, the resulting performance reflects the complementary nature of their materials. This means that while the top housing contributes to the initial acoustic prominence, the bottom housing influences the key's overall character when it is pressed down.
Ultimately, the synergy between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings of both switches results in a cohesive auditory experience that is both balanced and engaging. Users can expect that pressing down on either switch will provide an enjoyable dual-layer audio experience, where the high-pitched sound from the polycarbonate top combines with the deeper tones from the nylon bottom. The shared materials ensure that the sound profiles of the Huano Acacia and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro will maintain a level of consistency, allowing users to appreciate the distinct qualities of each switch while still enjoying a harmonized overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it's notable that both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams and the same bottom out force of 55 grams, placing them both in the medium-light category. Since their specifications are identical, users can expect similar performance in terms of keystroke activation and tactile feedback. This similarity means that individuals who favor lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions will find both options suitable for reducing finger fatigue. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel may lean towards heavier switches, which this comparison does not provide. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of switch type—linear versus tactile—rather than actuation or bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, there is a slight difference to note. The Acacia switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro measures slightly shorter at 3.3 mm. This means that the Acacia switch provides a deeper, more substantial press, which can feel more satisfying for users who prefer a hearty depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the shorter 3.3 mm travel of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may appeal to gamers and those seeking a quicker, more responsive typing experience, making it easier to execute fast inputs. Thus, if you value a more immersive feel, the Huano Acacia would be the better choice, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro caters to those desiring quicker actuation and response times.
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 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 it comes to sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch is known for its quiet operation, with minimal auditory feedback. This makes it an excellent choice for those who work in shared spaces or prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch produces a vibrant and distinct poppy sound with a clacky character that’s sure to satisfy users who enjoy more audible feedback during their typing sessions. The lively acoustics of the V3 Cream Blue Pro can create a satisfying auditory environment, especially when paired with the right keyboard plate and keycaps, enhancing the overall experience.
In terms of feel, the Acacia switch stands out with its medium-light weight and smooth actuation. Its factory lubrication ensures a pleasant and effortless typing experience with minimal stem wobble, allowing for clean keystrokes without any distraction. Contrarily, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro presents an array of tactile sensations. It boasts an accented tactile response that is neither overwhelming nor too subtle. Users will appreciate its bouncy nature, providing a spring-like feedback that feels lively during use. The snappy characteristic of the switch enhances responsiveness, and the polished finish contributes to a smooth key travel, making it pleasing to type on.
In summary, the Huano Acacia linear switch offers a quiet, smooth typing experience with a focus on minimal distraction, making it suitable for quieter environments. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro caters to those who favor pronounced auditory feedback and a more tactile sensation that feels lively and responsive. Thus, depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences, whether you lean towards muted linear characteristics or the engaging tactile feedback of a clicky switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the experience you are seeking. If you prioritize a smooth, quiet typing experience with minimal noise and a consistent feel, the Acacia switch is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force, combined with its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, makes it ideal for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. This switch is perfect for those who focus on efficiency and comfort, whether for work or casual use. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lively auditory experience combined with a satisfying tactile feedback, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be the better option for you. The 'poppy' and 'clacky' sound profile, along with its distinctive medium tactile feel, caters to individuals who thrive on the rhythm of typing and appreciate a more engaging interaction with their keyboard. In essence, if you're looking for an exhilarating typing experience with pronounced feedback that enhances your workflow or gaming, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is undeniably enticing. By weighing the value of sound versus smoothness, you can make a selection that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience to your liking.
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