Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Keygeek Keylin both present compelling options for linear switch enthusiasts. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is lauded for its affordability without compromising on quality, delighting typists with its unique poppy and clacky sound profile, which is amplified by a smooth actuation that many find satisfying. Its attributes of being 'creamy,' 'bouncy,' and 'snappy' make it an ideal pick for those who enjoy a tactile yet fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin switches, crafted with new molds, offer a more premium experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. These switches cater to users seeking a refined and luxurious typing feel. Both options serve distinct preferences within the linear switch category—while the Akko excels in affordability and a playful typing sound, the Keylin emphasizes an elevated tactile 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
38g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Keygeek Keylin utilize different materials for their top housings, which results in distinct auditory experiences when typing. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties that facilitate a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is advantageous for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback, particularly in RGB lighting environments where the translucency of polycarbonate can showcase vibrant colors. Conversely, the Keygeek Keylin is crafted with a nylon top housing, a material renowned for its softer properties that lead to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This provides a more rounded auditory experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a more muted and absorbent sound when typing.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Keygeek Keylin incorporate nylon for this part. The use of nylon in the bottom housing significantly affects the tactile experience and sound produced when the key bottoms out. Given that nylon is a classic material known for sound absorption, both switches yield a similar deeper and fuller sound signature at the point of actuation. This common bottom design ensures that despite the differing top housings, users can expect a consistent typing experience regarding the feedback and acoustics when they press down on the keys.
When considering the overall performance of these switches, users should note how the combination of materials impacts the sound profile. The unique top housing of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro provides a clearer sound on release, while the nylon top of the Keygeek Keylin yields a more rounded experience. However, the similarity in the nylon bottom housing offers a blend of attributes that can deliver an enjoyable typing experience in both cases. Ultimately, whether one opts for the sharper appeal of the V3 Cream Black Pro or the depth of the Keygeek Keylin, both switches promise satisfaction through their thoughtful materials and engineering, allowing users to achieve comparable auditory and tactile enjoyment in different ways.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to different user preferences. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Keylin switch offers a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, appealing to users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Consequently, the Akko switch can be categorized as medium-heavy, while the Keylin is considered light. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference, with the V3 Cream Black Pro providing a firmer feel and the Keylin allowing for a more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, it is evident that the two are not the same. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Keylin features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer. This difference in travel distance highlights the types of experiences each switch may offer. Gamers who prefer a quicker response time may favor the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro due to its shorter distance, allowing for faster actuation. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing might appreciate the depth of the Keylin switch. In this case, your choice should align with your personal preferences for either responsiveness or a more tactile experience.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 is characterized by its distinctive poppy and clacky acoustics, creating a high-pitched sound profile that can be quite crisp upon key activation. This is particularly appealing for users who favor a sharper auditory feedback over the deeper bass tones found in some other switches. In contrast, the sound qualities of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch remain less defined in the available information, leaving an unknown factor in this comparison. However, it is possible the rich acoustics are designed to complement a variety of setups, but specifics about the sound characteristics are not provided.
Regarding feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a remarkable typing experience with its creamy and buttery sensation, which allows for smooth glides with each keystroke. Alongside this silky texture, it incorporates bouncy and snappy elements, which makes each press feel lively and responsive—leading to an engaging and invigorating typing experience. The polished finish of these switches further enhances the overall smoothness, resulting in reduced friction and effortless key travel. Unfortunately, the specifics about the feel of the Keylin switch are not documented, so we cannot draw any comparisons on this attribute.
In summary, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch provides distinct auditory and tactile experiences highlighted by its high-pitched sounds and exceptionally smooth, responsive feel. While the sound profile of the Keylin switch is less described, its intended premium quality might suggest a comforting yet different typing experience. Until more information is available on the Keylin switch, those opting for either switch can expect qualitative similarities in terms of smoothness, particularly from the V3 Cream Black Pro's noted characteristics, while the auditory feedback remains an open consideration.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches, consider both your typing style and personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier feel with a bottom-out force of 65 grams, the V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent choice, providing a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound that many budget-conscious users appreciate. This switch excels in delivering a creamy, bouncy sensation that enhances the typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively and engaging feel beneath their fingers. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch, the Keylin switch, with its 48-gram bottom-out force, offers an easy and effortless typing experience. Coupled with its premium acoustic profile and exceptional smoothness, the Keylin is perfect for users who prioritize comfort and a muted, yet rich sound in their keyboards. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you desire a more tactile experience with the Cream Black Pro or a lighter, smoother feel with the Keylin.
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