Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is renowned for its affordability and high quality, providing budget-minded individuals with a premium mechanical keyboard experience. These switches are praised for their distinct poppy and clacky sound, along with their smoothness, making typing a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch offers a tactile feedback that some users prefer, providing a more responsive 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches differ in terms of the materials used. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their unique characteristics, they ultimately contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch in contrasting ways.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Cream Yellow switches use nylon. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. While the top housing materials may differ, the similarities in the bottom housing material ensure that users will get similar results in terms of sound and typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing. The differences between polycarbonate and nylon in the top housing of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches result in distinct sound profiles, with polycarbonate offering a sharper and crisper sound, while nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound absorption and overall feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the 55 grams of the Cream Black Pro. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 60 grams for the Cream Yellow and 65 grams for the Cream Black Pro. The Cream Black Pro offers a slightly heavier actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Cream Yellow's lighter actuation force may be preferred by those who type for extended periods of time and value a lighter touch. Despite the difference in actuation force, both switches provide a similar level of consistency and responsiveness, making them suitable options for different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, you will experience a consistent and similar key press depth. With both switches offering the same travel distance, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the physical feedback and feel of the keys. Whether you choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro or the Outemu Cream Yellow, you can be assured that your typing experience will be smooth and consistent.
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 Cream Yellow 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 sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. This unique sound can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a more vibrant auditory feedback. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is not specified, so it is difficult to draw a direct comparison in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as having a creamy sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Additionally, it is mentioned to have a bouncy and snappy feel, providing a lively and responsive feedback when typing. Furthermore, the polished finish of the switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the description for the feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow switch is not provided, making it challenging to contrast its tactile feedback with that of the V3 Cream Black Pro.
Considering the available information, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch seems to excel in both sound and feel aspects, offering a unique high-pitched sound profile coupled with a smooth and responsive typing experience. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch remain unknown, it is likely that users may achieve similar results in sound and feel by opting for the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch based on the provided descriptions. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches may depend on personal preference and the overall keyboard setup desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a budget-conscious individual looking for a high-quality linear switch with a unique poppy and clacky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be the ideal choice for you. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and smoothness make it a great option for those who prefer a slightly heavier keystroke. On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch might be more suitable for you. The Cream Yellow switch provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a silky sensation while typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your desired sound and feel profiles.
Mentioned in this article
