Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Crystal 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 Crystal Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Cream Black Pro is favored for its unique combination of a poppy and clacky sound, smoothness, and budget-friendly price point. On the other hand, the Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature for a silky smooth typing experience. While both switches offer a polished feel, Bouncy, and Snappy characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile and construction material. 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
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in both keyboards creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the keyboards. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro.
While both keyboards share the same top housing material, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro results in varying sound profiles and typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing, whereas the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials highlights how the choice of material can impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of a keyboard.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The split between the bottom and top housing materials of these keyboards allows for a unique typing experience, where the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both keyboards offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Crystal Pro is the lighter option in terms of actuation force. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires 55 grams to actuate a keystroke, while the V3 Crystal Pro only needs 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Black Pro is heavier, needing 65 grams compared to the Crystal Pro's 60 grams. Both switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience, but the Cream Black Pro offers a slightly more substantial push feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may opt for the Crystal Pro, while those who enjoy a firmer press may lean towards the Cream Black Pro. Overall, both switches offer a balance of actuation force and bottom out force for a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Crystal Pro switch has a slightly longer distance to travel from the top to the bottom compared to the Cream Black Pro switch. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them suitable for individuals who prefer quicker response times and a more compact feel when typing or gaming. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different tactile feel when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of responsiveness and key feel.
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 Crystal 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 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile that produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This unique sound is complemented by a creamy and bouncy feel that provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch showcases a chirpy sound signature with a distinctive squeak to them, thanks to its polycarbonate construction. The feel of the Crystal Pro switch is bouncy and polished, offering a sleek typing experience with smooth key travel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Crystal Pro linear switches provide different sound and feel experiences that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a high-pitched sound with a creamy and bouncy feel, the Cream Black Pro switch is the way to go. Conversely, if you prefer a chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, then the Crystal Pro switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, so regardless of your choice, you can expect similar results in that aspect. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a high-pitched sound and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a chirpy sound and a bouncy, polished typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you when typing on your mechanical keyboard.
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