Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, to the SP-Star Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, featuring a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound combined with exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches offer a gentle and soft tactility with a neutral sound profile. While the Cream Black Pro is described as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the Meteor Orange is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer distinct differences in terms of their acoustic properties and overall feel. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. While both materials are effective in their own right, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro is more ideal for users looking for a brighter sound with a more pronounced resonance, while the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange offers a warmer and more mellow typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Meteor Orange utilize nylon, which is known for its sound-absorbing properties. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housing. The differences in sound between the two switches will likely be more subtle when it comes to the bottom housing, as both nylon materials are relatively softer and able to absorb sound effectively. However, users may still notice a slightly different sound quality between the two switches due to variations in design and manufacturing.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Meteor Orange ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. While the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and more resonant sound, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller typing experience. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound experience in terms of sound absorption and overall feel. Ultimately, users should consider their preferences for sound profile and typing feel when deciding between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro is on the heavier side with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. In contrast, the Meteor Orange is lighter, with a bottom out force of 57 grams. The actuation force of the Meteor Orange is not provided, but it is likely to be lighter based on the bottom out force. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the V3 Cream Black Pro due to its heavier forces, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may opt for the Meteor Orange. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the V3 Cream Black Pro providing a more firm and sturdy feel, while the Meteor Orange offers a lighter and smoother touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch provides a bit more depth and tactile feedback, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or programming tasks. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for individual users.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for producing a high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more high-frequency sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for various users and purposes. It also has a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying noise reminiscent of a soft thud, giving a different tactile feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is often described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. This sensation is attributed to lubrication within the switch or specific materials, allowing for effortless keystrokes. Additionally, it is bouncy and snappy, giving a lively and responsive feel to typing. Conversely, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a mild typing experience, gentle and approachable to most users. It also boasts a polished finish, contributing to reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch excels in providing a high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy, and snappy feel for a smooth and lively typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a thocky noise and a mild, polished typing sensation for a gentle and refined typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the sharp and lively characteristics of the Akko switch or the gentle and polished qualities of the SP-Star switch to cater to their specific typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a high-pitched, poppy sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a neutral, thocky sound profile, the Meteor Orange may be more suited to your taste. Additionally, if you value a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers these characteristics, while the Meteor Orange provides a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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