Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Outemu Brown offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch that stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction. Known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, these switches also impress with their smoothness, making typing a truly enjoyable experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch is a tactile switch that offers a different typing feel compared to the linear Akko switch. While the Brown switch lacks any specific standout features, it is known for its reliability and consistency. Whether you prefer a creamy, bouncy feel with high-pitched sound or a more subtle tactile feedback, both switches have their own advantages. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
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
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Brown both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, while both switches have the same material for the top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Brown. Nylon is known to be a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the V3 Cream Black Pro.
Despite the similarities in the use of polycarbonate for the top housing of both switches, the differences lie in the bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a different typing experience compared to the Outemu Brown's unspecified bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that complements the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch may vary between the two switches, with the V3 Cream Black Pro likely providing a more rounded and subdued bottom-out sound.
In summary, while both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Brown feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and clear sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro sets it apart in terms of sound experience. The nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound when typing, making it a preferred option for those who enjoy a more rounded sound. The differences in housing materials between the two switches highlight how the combination of materials can affect the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Brown tactile switch with 53 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in terms of typing pressure. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Outemu Brown switch may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch provides a slightly stronger push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing pressure and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Outemu Brown's 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is favored by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown offers a longer travel distance, providing a more substantial and tactile feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference in terms of desired responsiveness and keypress 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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more distinct sound profile. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Outemu Brown tactile switch. Remember that the sound of a switch is affected by various factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is praised for its creamy typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, likely due to factory lubrication or specific materials used. Additionally, they are described as bouncy and snappy, providing a lively feedback and responsive keystrokes. The switches are also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no information provided about the feel of the Outemu Brown tactile switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound along with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you are considering the Outemu Brown tactile switch, keep in mind that specific details regarding sound and feel are not available, so results may vary. Ultimately, it is crucial to consider your personal preferences and needs when selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound, smooth key presses, and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be an excellent choice for you. However, if you prefer a different tactile experience and are looking for a switch with a similar bottom out force, you may want to consider the Outemu Brown tactile switch. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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