Kailh Box White vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the clicky Kailh Box White switch and the linear Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. The Box White provides maximum audio feedback with a distinct "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility, perfect for those who enjoy a resonant and high-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a budget-friendly option with a poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, ideal for those who prefer an easy-to-press and bouncy feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The translucent nature of polycarbonate is also beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through easily. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a premium typing experience.
In terms of their bottom housing material, both the Box White and the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilize nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice enhances the overall typing experience by providing a different sound and feel when compared to the top housing. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings in these switches creates a balanced typing experience with both sharp and resonant sounds.
While the housing materials for the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro share similarities in terms of their top and bottom housing composition, the differences in sound profiles and typing experiences come from the unique properties of polycarbonate and nylon. The split between the top and bottom housing qualities allows for a dynamic typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer a premium typing experience with a combination of sharp, crisp sounds from polycarbonate and deep, full sounds from nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent feel when typing on either switch, as both require the same amount of force to register a keystroke and fully press down. The medium weight of both switches provides a balanced typing experience, allowing for comfortable typing without feeling too light or too heavy. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of switch type (clicky or linear) rather than actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Therefore, the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow Pro. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Both switches offer different travel distances, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White switch offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile with a crunchy texture that mimics stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch provides a poppy and clacky sound with a decent smoothness, creating a vibrant auditory experience combined with a creamy tactile feel. When it comes to feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. Meanwhile, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a light actuation force, minimal exertion, lively feedback, and a responsive typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you prefer a clicky switch with a crisp and sharp sound accompanied by a tactile feel, the Kailh Box White switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you value a linear switch with a poppy and clacky sound paired with a smooth and easy-to-press feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a loud and tactile typing experience with a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, the Box White may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and easy-to-press switch with a creamy tactile feel and a poppy, clacky sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing needs.
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