Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Neo Lavender HE present distinct options tailored to different preferences and needs. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is celebrated for its affordability without sacrificing quality, delivering a delightful combination of a poppy, clacky sound and an impressively smooth typing experience. Its characteristics—'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'—make it an attractive option for those seeking an engaging tactile response without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE utilizes hall effect technology, producing a clean, low sound that distinguishes it from traditional mechanical switches, particularly when paired with Wooting keyboards. This switch is perfect for users who prioritize a quieter typing experience and innovative features in their setup. Both switches have unique strengths that cater to various user preferences—from an exhilarating sound and feel to whisper-quiet performance. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Neo Lavender HE present a notable contrast in their acoustic characteristics. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, providing a clearer and more resonant output when activated. In contrast, the Lavender HE incorporates a nylon top housing that offers a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a more rounded audio experience. Consequently, while both switches can produce unique auditory feelings, the V3 Cream Black Pro is likely to present a more crisp response during key release, while the Lavender HE would provide a more subdued auditory experience.
Regarding their bottom housings, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Lavender HE utilize nylon materials. This similarity means that both switches will share characteristics associated with nylon’s sound profile, such as a duller and rounder tone. The soft nature of nylon reduces the impact of sound transmitted through the bottom portion when typing, generating a deeper base sound that enhances the tactile sensation across both switches. As such, while the top housing differences may lead to varied audio experiences during release, the nylon bottom housing ensures that the key bottom-out feel remains consistent between the two, allowing users to expect a satisfying tactile feedback.
In conclusion, despite the contrasting materials used in the top housing, which create distinctly different sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing aligns the overall typing experience of both switches. If you appreciate the clarity that the V3 Cream Black Pro offers during release but also desire the fullness offered by nylon in the bottom, you will find that the housing types provide a balance. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in overall feel and sound depth during a typing session, with the unique tonal distinctions coming primarily from the differing top housings. This means that while one switch may favor sharper notes, and the other a more subdued sound, both will encapsulate the classic nylon typing experience that many enthusiasts prefer.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, notable differences arise. The V3 Cream Black Pro features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE holds a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Cream Black Pro requires a stronger push to actuate and bottom out, making it more suitable for users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Conversely, the Lavender HE, being lighter, offers less resistance, which is beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where minimal effort is preferred. Ultimately, if you favor a more substantial feel while typing, the V3 Cream Black Pro would be the better option, whereas the Neo Lavender HE would cater to those who appreciate a softer touch and lighter keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, the key difference lies in their measurements. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, thus offering a longer travel experience. For gamers or users who favor quick response times, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the V3 Cream Black Pro may provide a more responsive feel. In contrast, some users may find the deeper 3.8 mm travel distance of the Lavender HE to be more satisfying for a “hearty” typing experience. Therefore, choosing between these switches depends largely on personal preference regarding travel distance.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 per 10 switches.
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 delivers a distinctive high-pitched, poppy, and clacky tone that resonates when typing, providing a crisp auditory feedback that many find engaging. This characteristic makes it a suitable choice for users who prefer a sharper sound profile over richer, bass-heavy alternatives. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is designed to produce a clean, low sound, which can offer a more subdued auditory experience. The difference in sound profile between these two switches means that if you prefer a lively, resonant typing noise, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out, while the Lavender HE will cater to those looking for a quieter, more refined typing environment.
Regarding the feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro boasts several appealing qualities, including a creamy texture that delivers a smooth and buttery typing experience, a bouncy sensation that provides a lively responsiveness, and a snappy action that's super responsive to each keystroke. This mix of characteristics allows for a satisfying tactile feedback that enhances typing speed and precision. The polished nature of this switch ensures reduced friction, adding to the overall smoothness. On the other hand, the feel of the Neo Lavender HE switch remains largely unknown, which means users may have to rely on firsthand experiences or reviews to gauge its tactile characteristics.
In summary, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch excels in sound with its high-pitched, clacky feedback and offers a uniquely smooth and responsive typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch provides a clean, low sound suitable for a quieter atmosphere, but its tactile feel is not well documented. While these switches present different auditory experiences, the smoother and more tactile qualities of the V3 Cream Black Pro make it a standout option, particularly for those who prioritize the expressive element of typing, whereas the Lavender HE might be better suited for a more isolated or professional environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and usage scenarios. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, enjoy a high-pitched, poppy sound, and appreciate a creamy, polished feel for a smooth typing experience, then the V3 Cream Black Pro is likely ideal for you. It excels for those wanting tactile feedback combined with an engaging auditory experience, making it great for gaming and typing alike, especially if you are budget-conscious. However, if you favor a lighter keypress with a bottom out force of only 50 grams, desire a clean, low sound, and seek a switch that is compatible with cutting-edge technology like Wooting keyboards, the Neo Lavender HE may be your best bet. This switch is particularly suitable for rapid inputs where speed is crucial, offering a measurable advantage in competitive gaming. In short, consider your typing style, the importance of sound, and whether you lean towards budget options or innovative technology when making your decision.
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