Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Everglide Crystal Violet
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, and the Everglide Crystal Violet, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences and needs. The Akko Cream Black Pro V3 switches are favored by budget-conscious individuals looking for high-quality mechanical keyboard switches that provide a unique poppy and clacky sound, along with a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet switches are ideal for those seeking a light operating force and a gentle tactile typing experience with a mellow sound profile. Both switches offer their own set of characteristics that appeal to different users' 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Everglide Crystal Violet both feature unique housing materials that play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Crystal Violet opts for an ABS top housing, resulting in a lower-pitched sound when typing. However, both switches feature a similar ABS bottom housing, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the top housing material. Despite the difference in top housing material, the switches may still produce similar results in terms of sound due to the shared ABS bottom housing.
In terms of aesthetics, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its translucent polycarbonate top housing, making it ideal for those looking to showcase RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet's ABS top housing may not offer the same level of transparency and visual appeal as the polycarbonate material. However, the Crystal Violet switch may appeal to users looking for a switch with a unique and distinctive look, thanks to its less common ABS top housing. While the V3 Cream Black Pro focuses more on functionality with its polycarbonate top housing, the Crystal Violet leans towards providing a visually appealing option with its ABS material.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Everglide Crystal Violet play a crucial role in the sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the ABS bottom housing of the Crystal Violet results in a lower-pitched sound when typing. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro or a deeper sound with the Crystal Violet, the housing materials of these switches play a key role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires 55 grams of force to actuate a key and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet only needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, categorizing it as medium-light. The difference in weight between the two switches can provide users with different typing experiences based on their preferences. Some may find the lighter Crystal Violet more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the V3 Cream Black Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, the Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Crystal Violet has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Cream Black Pro may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Crystal Violet may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer more depth when typing. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distance, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched and crisp sound experience, which can provide a sharp and distinct auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch presents a more mellow and low-pitched sound profile, offering a subtle and relaxing auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the sharper sound of the Cream Black Pro or the gentler tones of the Crystal Violet.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as offering a creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation while typing. The V3 Cream Black Pro is also noted for its bouncy and snappy feel, giving a lively feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet switch is described as mild and stepped, offering a gentle and moderate tactile sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Whether users prefer a more lively and springy typing experience or a softer and more gradual tactile feedback, both switches cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Cream Black Pro provides a sharp and crisp sound with a bouncy and snappy typing feel, while the Crystal Violet offers a mellow sound profile with a mild and stepped tactile sensation. Depending on whether users prefer a more pronounced and lively typing experience or a gentler and more gradual tactile feedback, both switches present excellent options within the realm of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom-out force and enjoy a high-pitched sound profile with a more bouncy and snappy feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a low-pitched sound profile that leans towards mellow tones, and a creamy, mild, and stepped feel, then the Crystal Violet switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the tactile experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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