Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Blue mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. The Akko Cream Black Pro V3 switches are linear and are best known for their unique poppy and clacky sound, smoothness, and budget-friendly price point. They are described as 'creamy', 'high-pitched', 'bouncy', 'snappy', and 'polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switches are clicky and provide a satisfying tactile feedback with each key press. While they may not have as distinct characteristics mentioned, they are generally favored by those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Blue, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Although both switches share this feature, the V3 Cream Black Pro distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Blue's top housing. The nylon material in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While the V3 Cream Black Pro differentiates itself with a nylon bottom housing, the Outemu Blue sticks to a full polycarbonate construction for both the top and bottom housings. This results in a consistent sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile across the entire switch. The clear housing of both switches, made possible by polycarbonate, allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects to shine through. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro's use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Blue's all-polycarbonate design.
In terms of performance, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and typing experience of a switch. While the V3 Cream Black Pro's combination of polycarbonate and nylon delivers a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, the Outemu Blue's all-polycarbonate construction ensures a consistent and resonant sound profile throughout. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the desired sound and feel while typing. Both options offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch with 50 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Black Pro requires 65 grams, while the Outemu Blue does not have a specified bottom out force. In terms of weight, the V3 Cream Black Pro is considered medium-heavy, while the Outemu Blue is unavailable to compare. The V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue may offer a lighter typing experience with its lower actuation force, suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cream Black Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue clicky switch. The 3.3 mm travel distance of the Cream Black Pro offers a more responsive typing experience, ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Blue clicky switch provides a deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched, poppy, and clacky sound when pressed, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. This sound profile is complemented by the smoothness of the switch, offering a satisfying auditory feedback for users. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have a known sound description provided. Moving on to the feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This translates to a smooth and buttery typing sensation with a spring-like feedback and responsiveness, all contributing to a refined and sleek typing experience. On the other hand, there is no known description available for the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch.
When considering all the available information, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch excels in both sound and feel aspects, offering a unique combination of high-pitched sound and creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished tactile feel. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option with premium quality. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Blue clicky switch are unknown, it is likely to provide a different typing experience compared to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, each switch will cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person will provide the best insight into which one suits your needs and typing style the best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is important to consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth and poppy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a lighter touch and a more traditional typing sound, the Outemu Blue switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
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