Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, and the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch. The V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, delivering a unique poppy and clacky sound combined with smoothness. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown offers a more subtle typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. While the Cream Black Pro is categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', the MX Brown is described as 'Textured', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched'. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches, we can see that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This means that both switches will likely produce a similar sound when typing, with a duller and rounder quality to the sound. This can be appealing for those who prefer a more muted typing experience, as the nylon material helps to dampen the sound of the keystrokes.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes polycarbonate while the Cherry MX Brown features nylon. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a higher-pitched typing sound. On the other hand, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in top housing materials can lead to a difference in the overall typing experience between the two switches, with the V3 Cream Black Pro offering a clearer sound and the Cherry MX Brown providing a more muffled sound.
It's important to note that the choice of housing materials not only affects the sound profile of the switches but also their aesthetic appeal. The V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through and creating a visually striking look. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon housing may not offer the same level of visibility for RGB lighting. This aspect of the housing materials can be a determining factor for those who prioritize customizable lighting effects in their keyboard setup. Overall, while both switches may have some similarities in terms of their nylon bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials can significantly impact the sound and visual appeal of the keyboards they are used in.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is also higher at 65 grams, while the Cherry MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is both heavier to actuate and bottom out than the Cherry MX Brown switch. This difference in weight results in a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Brown switch cater to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the MX Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Brown. The shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm on the V3 Cream Black Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances are favored for quick actions. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance on the MX Brown may provide a more substantial feeling when typing, which could be preferred by those looking for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 is known for its high-pitched and sharp sound profile, providing a crisp and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound, creating a deeper and richer audio feedback during key presses. Depending on personal preference, individuals may gravitate towards the poppy and clacky sound of the V3 Cream Black Pro or the subtle and gentle tactility of the MX Brown switch, noting that the overall sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is lauded for its creamy and smooth typing experience, giving users a buttery sensation as they glide their fingers effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the switch provides a bouncy and snappy feedback, making typing feel lively and responsive. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as textured, featuring noticeable friction when pressed, which can appeal to users who prefer a bit of resistance during typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to whether one prefers a polished and refined typing experience with the V3 Cream Black Pro or a slightly more tactile and textured feel with the MX Brown switch.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Cream Black Pro excels in producing a high-pitched and creamy sound with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the MX Brown provides a bassy and textured sound with a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and overall user experience. Ultimately, users can expect quality performance and durability from both the V3 Cream Black Pro and MX Brown switches, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a smooth and poppy sound, along with a creamy and bouncy feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with gentle tactility, subdued audio feedback, and a preference for a more textured typing experience, then the Cherry MX Brown switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch to enhance your overall typing experience.
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