Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, one might come across the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, both linear switches known for their distinctive features. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is lauded for its budget-friendly nature, smoothness, and unique poppy and clacky sound, making it an excellent choice for those seeking affordability without compromising quality. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver stands out for its rapid response and low spring resistance, catering specifically to gamers who prioritize speed and precision in their keystrokes. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, one key difference lies in their top housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly influence the typing experience for users who prefer either a crisper or rounder sound when using their mechanical keyboard.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of these switches, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the MX Speed Silver employ nylon for this component. This common choice of housing material results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, as nylon absorbs sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound regardless of the switch model. While the top housing may play a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, users can expect a comparable overall sound profile from these switches when it comes to their bottom housing material.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Cherry MX Speed Silver can come down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro creates a crisper sound, ideal for those who enjoy a sharper typing experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who prefer a rounder typing sound. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a consistent typing experience, the top housing material will play a significant role in the overall sound profile and feel of each switch, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver's lighter actuation force of 30 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro requires 65 grams to fully press down, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is not specified. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro provides a medium-heavy typing experience, offering a substantial push feel, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver provides a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro for a more robust typing experience, while others may opt for the lighter actuation force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and use cases.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to all users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the Cherry MX Speed Silver. On the other hand, those who prioritize a quicker and more responsive typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, catering to users who appreciate a more compact and efficient 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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed, which can be appealing to those who prefer a more distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, delivering a deep and rich tone that some users find more satisfying. When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation that glides effortlessly, along with a spring-like feedback for lively key presses. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, which means it may have noticeable friction when pressed, providing a different tactile experience compared to the smoother feel of the Cream Black Pro.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is a great budget-friendly option for those looking for a poppy and clacky sound paired with a smooth and polished feel, ideal for users who prioritize a distinct sound and a buttery typing experience. Conversely, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch caters to gamers seeking maximum speed and rapid response, with its thocky sound and textured feel offering a unique tactile feedback for quick and precise keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the intended use case, as both can deliver excellent performance in their respective areas.
Conclusion
Therefore, when it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a budget-friendly option with a unique sound profile that is smooth and clacky, then the V3 Cream Black Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid response time and maximum speed, especially for gaming situations where every millisecond counts, the MX Speed Silver is the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so make your decision based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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