Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Meteor White mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that both options have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Black Pro is renowned for its budget-friendly price point and delivers a satisfying poppy and clacky sound that is complemented by its smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Meteor White offers a more subdued and gentle linear switch experience, with an easy-to-push feel and a soft pitter-patter sound profile. These switches are categorized differently, with the Cream Black Pro being described as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', while the Meteor White is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. When making a decision between these two switches, it all comes down to personal preference; 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Meteor White both feature top housings made of different materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro uses a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. While the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, the Meteor White's nylon top housing brings a classic and deeper typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Meteor White feature nylon material. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound quality, creating a unique typing experience for users. Despite the differences in their top housings, the switches share a similarity in the material used for the bottom housing, resulting in a consistent sound profile across the board.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it is evident that each material brings distinct qualities to the switches. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This demonstrates how the choice of housing material can affect the overall sound profile and feel of a switch, providing users with a customized typing experience based on their preferences. Ultimately, whether it be the polycarbonate top housing of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro or the nylon top housing of the SP-Star Meteor White, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Cream Black Pro is also heavier at 65 grams, while the Meteor White has a lower bottom out force of 57 grams. This makes the V3 Cream Black Pro a bit heavier overall, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Meteor White switch, as it requires less force to bottom out. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback, catering to the preferences of individuals who seek either a lighter or heavier typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 White linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Black Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Meteor White may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer deeper key presses. Both switches offer a different experience in terms of travel distance, catering to individual preferences based on personal typing or gaming habits. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing 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 SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched and sharp sound profile that may appeal to those who prefer a crisp tone when typing. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a more neutral sound with a slight thocky quality, offering a moderate and satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the higher-pitched sound of the Cream Black Pro may be preferred by some, while others may find the gentle and pleasant sound of the Meteor White more enjoyable.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth, springy, responsive, and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch offers a mild and approachable typing sensation, along with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, catering to different preferences for key feel. While the Cream Black Pro offers a more dynamic and lively feel, the Meteor White offers a gentle and refined touch.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and SP-Star Meteor White switches both offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Whether you prefer the high-pitched sharpness of the Cream Black Pro or the gentle thockiness of the Meteor White, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience with their respective qualities. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what type of typing sensation you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, you should consider the factors that align with your preferences. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force, a high-pitched sound profile, and a combination of creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel in a switch, then the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a neutral sound profile with a touch of thocky sound, and a mild, polished feel, then the SP-Star Meteor White switch would be more suitable for your taste. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience and sound profile you personally enjoy the most.
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