Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Cream Black Pro is known for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, featuring a unique poppy and clacky sound along with exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow Pro offers a similar auditory experience but with a creamy tactile feel that may appeal to a different set of users. Both switches are categorized as bouncy and snappy, making them ideal for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for the switches, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more clear and resonant typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the RGB lighting effects, giving the keyboards a visually appealing aesthetic. Whether you choose the Cream Black or Cream Yellow Pro, you can expect similar qualities in terms of sound and appearance due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, the keyboards differ when it comes to the material used for the bottom housing. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is possible because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering the same benefits in terms of sound quality. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will provide a unique tactile experience, making each keystroke more satisfying and immersive.
The contrasting bottom housings of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro showcase how different materials can impact the overall typing experience. While both keyboards share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their bottom housings provide users with distinct sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing on each keyboard absorbs sound differently, resulting in keyboards that offer deep and full typing experiences. Whether you prefer the Cream Black or Cream Yellow Pro, you can enjoy a customized typing experience tailored to your preferences based on the materials used in the top and bottom housings.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch. The Black Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Black Pro can provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher force requirements, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Yellow Pro is lighter in force, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods where a lighter touch is preferred. Both switches offer a different typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that you will get consistent results when using either switch, making them both reliable options for your mechanical keyboard.
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 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.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is noted for its high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp tones when pressed. On the other hand, information regarding the sound of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is not provided. When considering the subjective aspect of sound in mechanical keyboard switches, it is crucial to understand that the acoustics can also be influenced by the keyboard chassis, keycaps, and overall setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is defined by its creamy and bouncy tactile experience, offering smooth and buttery key presses with an elastic feedback sensation. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press and feathery, providing gentle resistance with light actuation force for effortless typing sessions. Both switches exhibit snappy and polished qualities, contributing to a responsive and refined keystroke experience. It is worth noting that the tactile feel of a switch is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences and typing habits.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch emphasizes a higher-pitched sound profile and a creamy, bouncy tactile feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch focuses on a combination of poppy, clacky sound and an easy-to-press, feathery tactile sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the better choice for you. The Cream Black Pro offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, making it suitable for those who appreciate a smooth and responsive feel while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and seek an easy-to-press switch with a feathery feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro might be the more suitable option. The Cream Yellow Pro provides a polished and bouncy typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a light and gentle typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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