Kailh Box White vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch. The Box White is praised for its satisfying clicky feedback, offering a "stepping on autumn leaves" sensation with each key press. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its smooth and poppy sound, catering to those seeking budget-friendly high-quality switches. While the Box White provides a crunchy and resonant typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a bouncy and snappy feel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches designed for RGB lighting. The similarities in their top housing material suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to these switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Kailh Box White features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. With both switches incorporating nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience across both options.
When it comes to the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, the characteristics of the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. With both the Kailh Box White and Akko V3 Cream Black Pro featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a consistent deep and full sound profile during typing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing further enhances the overall sound quality, creating a sharp and resonant typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box White requires 60 grams, while the V3 Cream Black Pro needs 65 grams, making it the heavier of the two. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Box White for longer typing sessions, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may opt for the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it could impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch depending on personal preference. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Kailh Box White. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between depth and speed, providing a satisfying typing experience depending on individual needs.
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 Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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 Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched noise, resembling the sound of stepping on autumn leaves. This switch provides a clean and sharp auditory experience that some users find immersive. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is also high-pitched, offering a poppy and clacky sound right out of the box. Both switches excel in providing distinctive sound profiles, with the Box White leaning towards a sharper tone while the Cream Black Pro offers a more unique poppy sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its creamy and bouncy feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation coupled with a spring-like feedback. The Cream Black Pro also boasts a snappy response, making the typing experience more lively. While the Box White focuses on a refined and smooth finish, the Cream Black Pro emphasizes a silky sensation and rebound when pressed.
Overall, both the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Box White provides a crisp and resonant auditory experience with an accented tactility, while the Cream Black Pro offers a poppy and clacky sound with a smooth and buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches deliver exceptional performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a loud and clicky typing experience with precise auditory feedback, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its resonant and high-pitched sound profile, along with a polished feel, will provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a unique poppy sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be the perfect fit. With its creamy feel and bouncy, snappy feedback, these switches offer a different typing experience compared to the clicky Box Whites. Ultimately, your preference for sound and feel will determine which switch is best suited for your needs and preferences.
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