Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Huano Grape Orange

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Huano Grape Orange both offer unique benefits to cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent option for those on a budget who aren't willing to sacrifice quality; it delivers a delightful poppy and clacky sound alongside a smooth and polished feel, making every keystroke enjoyable. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange switch prioritizes an ultra-light actuation force of 40g, making it a standout choice for those who engage in extended typing sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue and provides an effortless experience. While both switches are linear and designed for a smooth travel experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro leans towards an auditory delight with its unique sound profile, whereas the Grape Orange emphasizes comfort and ease of use during long hours of typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko V3 Cream Black Pro Linear

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.77

$2.70 per 10

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Huano Grape Orange, it becomes evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, contributing to a similar auditory experience. Polycarbonate is renowned for its stiffness and translucency, which yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances clarity and resonance. This characteristic is further amplified when RGB lighting is incorporated, as the clear housing allows light to pass through, creating vibrant and visually dynamic effects. Therefore, both switches are likely to produce crisp and articulate sound when typing, showcasing the advantages of polycarbonate in crafting an engaging and responsive user experience.

In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housings, both switches employ nylon, a material that is well-regarded for its ability to absorb sound and create a fuller auditory presence. Nylon's softer properties contribute to a deeper and rounder sound profile, allowing for a more pleasant tactile feedback while typing. Since the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and Grape Orange will evoke a similar sensation during use. This shared characteristic enhances the typing experience, balancing the piercing clarity of the polycarbonate top with the warmer, more subdued tones produced by the nylon bottom.

Ultimately, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Huano Grape Orange are constructed from different materials for their top and bottom housings, their use of the same plastics leads to a complementary sound profile that captures the strengths of both materials. The combination of polycarbonate on top adds brightness and clarity while nylon below rounds out the sound signature with depth and warmth. Consequently, users can expect a coherent and satisfying auditory experience regardless of which switch they choose, with each element working in harmony to deliver a balanced overall performance.

Weight

When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Grape Orange has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to those who favor a more effortless typing feel, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Consequently, the Grape Orange is the lighter of the two, while the V3 Cream Black Pro is heavier. This variation in force preferences allows users to choose based on their comfort and typing style—lighter switches for prolonged use and heavier switches for a more tactile feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Huano Grape Orange linear switches, a distinct difference emerges. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter of the two switches. In contrast, the Grape Orange switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which provides a more pronounced depth when pressed. For gamers or users seeking quick response times, the shorter 3.3 mm travel of the V3 Cream Black Pro may be more appealing, as it allows for faster key actuation. However, those who prefer a more tactile and deeper feel might find the slightly longer 3.6 mm travel of the Grape Orange more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in their typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound produced by the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches is characterized by a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp quality. This makes them appealing to those who prefer a brighter acoustic profile over the deeper, bassy sounds of other switches. The unique poppy and clacky tones they generate can enhance the typing experience, giving auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Huano Grape Orange switches, leaving uncertainty about how they might compare in this regard. Sound is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, so users may find a range of auditory experiences even within the same switch.

In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches offer a delightful combination of creamy smoothness, bouncy feedback, and a polished sensation. This smooth and buttery typing experience enables users to glide effortlessly across the keys, creating a comfortable and engaging interaction with the keyboard. The bouncy nature of the switches gives a lively rebound, adding to the tactile pleasure while typing. The incorporation of snappy responsiveness further enhances this feeling, making each keystroke feel immediate and alive. Conversely, there isn't any specific detail available about the feel of the Huano Grape Orange switches. This lack of information means it’s difficult to draw a direct comparison in tactile experiences.

In summary, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are well-regarded for their distinct high-pitched sound and smooth tactile feedback, the Huano Grape Orange offers an unknown quality in both sound and feel. Therefore, while the Akko switches are great for those who appreciate auditory and tactile feedback, the experience with Grape Orange remains a mystery. Engaging with both switches could yield similar outcomes regarding typing efficiency, but the overall experience will vary based on personal preferences related to sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch largely hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a typing experience that combines a medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams with a distinctive poppy and clacky sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent option. Its creamy, bouncy feel and polished finish provide a smooth and responsive typing experience, making it suitable for those who enjoy an engaging tactile feedback while still appreciating a bit of auditory flair. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Huano Grape Orange switch, with its light 50 grams actuation force, will likely serve you better. This switch offers an effortless keystroke that can make long periods of typing more comfortable and less tiresome. Its design focuses on providing a simple and smooth experience without the heavier feedback, perfect for users who may prefer a quieter, less pronounced sound profile. In summary, consider the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro if you’re looking for rich sound and tactile feedback, while the Huano Grape Orange is ideal for comfort and ease over longer use.

Mentioned in this article

Akko V3 Cream Black Pro Linear

$3.77

$2.70 per 10

Learn more

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more