Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cold Plum 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 the Outemu Cold Plum are both excellent options to consider. The Akko Cream Black Pro V3 switches are ideal for budget-conscious users looking for high-quality switches that deliver a unique poppy and clacky sound coupled with a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer a thocky sound profile and smooth typing experience due to their fully nylon construction, making them a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cold Plum switches have distinct differences that impact their sound profiles and aesthetics. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also translucent, making it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cold Plum uses a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound.
Both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's ability to absorb sound compared to harder plastics makes it a popular choice for switch housing material. However, the split between the top and bottom housing materials means that the qualities of each material will be felt differently depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released.
In summary, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a crisp and resonant sound, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing that enhances the typing experience, but the split between top and bottom housings ensures that each material's qualities are felt distinctly when using the switches.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch both fall into the medium-heavy category when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Black Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that the Cold Plum switch is slightly heavier than the V3 Cream Black Pro switch. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with some preferring the lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a solid performance in terms of weight and force requirements, providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.3mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of distance traveled when using either of these switches. The travel distance of both switches allows for a smooth and satisfying key press, providing a comfortable typing experience. Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches offer similar travel distances, ensuring that users will get comparable results in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Cold Plum 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 characterized by its high-pitched and poppy sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, which is more deep and resonant, creating a distinct typing experience. The choice between the two switches would ultimately depend on personal preference for sound, with the Cream Black Pro offering a brighter tone and the Cold Plum a richer one.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth, buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback and polished finish for reduced friction. In comparison, the tactile feel of the Outemu Cold Plum switch is unknown. While the Cream Black Pro provides a silky sensation and tactile response, the Cold Plum switch's feel remains a mystery, leaving potential users to take a chance on a unique typing experience.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches have their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Black Pro excels in providing a high-pitched and poppy sound, coupled with a creamy and bouncy feel, ideal for those seeking a smooth and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a thocky sound profile without specific information on feel, making it a mystery in terms of typing feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches offering a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound, smooth keystrokes, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound profile, fully nylon construction, and a bottom out force of 70 grams, then the Outemu Cold Plum switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired typing experience, sound preference, and bottom out force preference. Choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
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