HMX Cheese vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than the majority on the market, providing a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are tailored for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes and a pleasing bassy sound. With a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, these switches are ideal for situations where speed is critical. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro utilizes polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate will ultimately depend on the individual's preference for sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Cheese and the V3 Silver Pro feature nylon, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches will have a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. While there may be slight variations in sound due to other factors, such as keycaps or plate material, the nylon bottom housing in both switches plays a significant role in producing a specific sound experience for users.
When considering the overall sound profile of a switch, the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. While the Cheese and the V3 Silver Pro differ in their top housing material (nylon vs. polycarbonate), both switches share the same nylon bottom housing. This means that the qualities of nylon, such as sound absorption and a deeper sound profile, will be present in both switches to some extent. The impact of the bottom housing will be more noticeable during bottom-out sounds, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall sound signature and typing feel of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, making them ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. The slight difference in force between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, as both fall within the lighter end of the force spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are favored by gamers for faster response times. The Cheese switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when typing compared to the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the level of keypress feedback desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch offers a clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, providing a unique and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is described as producing a bassy sound with a high-pitched tone, catering specifically to gamers who prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile. Your choice between the two will depend on your preference for sound characteristics, considering factors such as the keyboard platform and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, delivering a premium feel with each keystroke. In comparison, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers an easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force to activate, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro switch features a creamy, feathery, polished, and silky feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. The choice between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a light and effortless key press or a smoother and buttery typing feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and use cases. While the HMX Cheese switch excels in providing a satisfying clacky sound and pristine typing experience, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is designed for gamers seeking a light actuation force and shortened travel distance. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and the specific requirements of your typing or gaming setup. Both switches are engineered to provide a high-quality typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and durability.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, you should consider your primary use case. If you prioritize a smooth and ultra-light typing experience with a satisfying sound signature, the HMX Cheese switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for switches specifically engineered for gaming with light actuation force and shortened travel distance, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value typing feel and sound quality or gaming performance and speed.
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