Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two intriguing options are the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Gravel, both of which are linear switches that cater to distinct preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are celebrated for their budget-friendly appeal without compromising quality, producing a unique poppy and clacky sound alongside a remarkably smooth typing experience. They are characterized by a creamy, high-pitched, bouncy, and snappy response, making them an excellent choice for users who appreciate tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction in their typing. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switches offer an exceptional smoothness and a refined typing feel that appeals particularly to enthusiasts seeking a seamless and effortless experience. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches facilitate quick and responsive keystrokes that can enhance productivity for both typists and gamers alike. Ultimately, while both switches excel in delivering a satisfying linear typing experience, each caters to different user preferences—budget-friendly performance versus a refined smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Gravel, it's evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings. The choice of polycarbonate in both models signifies a focus on achieving a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Additionally, its translucent nature makes it an appealing option for RGB lighting setups, allowing vibrant illumination to shine through and create an attractive visual effect.
Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which further complements the sound profile. While the top housing's polycarbonate provides a crisper sound when keys are released, the nylon bottom housing counterbalances this with a deeper, fuller sound during key presses. The softer material of nylon absorbs more sound than its harder counterparts, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory feedback. This combination of materials effectively interplays to create a multifaceted auditory experience while typing: sharp and clear on the top with a warm, muffled response on the bottom.
In terms of performance and user experience, the similar housing materials in the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Gravel suggest that typing on both switches would yield relatively similar results. The polycarbonate will ensure a pronounced sound when the keys are released, while nylon will soften the impact when they are pressed. Therefore, despite the individual branding and aesthetic differences, users can anticipate a comparable sound profile and tactile feedback from both models, making them suitable options for those looking for a balanced combination of clarity and warmth in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, along with a bottom out force of 65 grams, which positions it in the medium-heavy category. In contrast, the HMX Gravel features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it much more suitable for users looking for a softer typing experience. This difference in force means that users favoring light switches may find the Gravel more comfortable for extended use, such as long gaming sessions or typing at work, while those who prefer a more substantial feel will likely prefer the heavier V3 Cream Black Pro. Consequently, for those seeking a lighter typing experience with less finger fatigue, the Gravel switch is the clear choice, while the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a firmer push.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Gravel linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times for their rapid key presses. In contrast, the HMX Gravel, with its longer travel distance, can provide a more substantial and satisfying feel for users who prefer a deeper and more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth—shorter travel distances can enhance speed, while longer ones may feel more comfortable for prolonged typing.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 excels with a distinct high-pitched, poppy, and clacky profile that characterizes its auditory feedback. This sharp and crisp sound appeals to users who prefer a more pronounced auditory experience with their keystrokes. However, there is no information available regarding the sound profile of the HMX Gravel switch. Hence, while the Cream Black Pro offers a specific acoustic signature, the Gravel's sound qualities remain a mystery which could influence the purchase decision for sound-sensitive typists.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro impresses with an array of tactile characteristics including a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished sensation. The creamy texture ensures a smooth and buttery typing experience, while the bouncy quality offers a pleasant rebound, making typing feel both lively and responsive. The snappy nature of these switches adds to the overall aliveness of each keystroke, and the polished finish reduces friction for an effortless glide across the keys. In contrast, there is no detailed information available regarding the feel of the HMX Gravel switch, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. This lack of detail leaves potential Gravel users in the dark about the tactile experience awaiting them.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch presents a well-defined sound and an exceptional tactile experience, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a satisfying auditory and physical typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch lacks substantial information regarding both sound and feel, leaving potential buyers uncertain about what to expect. If you value clear sound and a rich tactile feel, the Cream Black Pro is an unequivocal recommendation, but be mindful that the Gravel may hold untapped qualities that could appeal to different preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Gravel linear switch will ultimately depend on your personal typing style and preferences. If you appreciate a medium-heavy actuation force and enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with a high-pitched sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro is the ideal candidate for you. Its unique combination of a creamy feel and snappy response provides an engaging tactile experience, making it suitable for both typing and gaming enthusiasts who thrive on feedback and an engaging sound. Conversely, the HMX Gravel switch, with its lighter actuation force and extraordinarily smooth operation, caters to those who prefer a more effortless and fluid typing experience. If prolonged typing sessions or a softer touch are your priorities, the Gravel switch's responsive and silky feel will likely meet your needs. Thus, your final decision hinges on whether you value a definitive tactile feedback and auditory experience or seek a lightweight and smooth typing sensation.
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