Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Purple offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is praised for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, providing a unique poppy and clacky sound with impressive smoothness. With attributes such as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', it is a popular choice among those looking for a tactile linear switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple stands out as a clicky switch with a more subtle description, making it ideal for users who prefer a quieter 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Purple both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches offer similar benefits with their polycarbonate top housings.
In contrast, the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Dustproof Purple differ in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Dustproof Purple features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. Both switches showcase the classic characteristics of nylon in their bottom housings.
When comparing the two switches, the different housing materials used in the top and bottom sections play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of each switch. While the top housing affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. By utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Dustproof Purple offer a balanced combination of sharper, higher-pitched sounds from the top and deeper, fuller sounds from the bottom, providing users with a versatile typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch both have an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equal in terms of weight. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes. The actuation force is the same for both switches, making them equally light to the touch, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. However, the bottom out force for both switches is on the medium-heavy side, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing force and the overall typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro requires less travel distance to actuate compared to the Dustproof Purple. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Purple with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth 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 Dustproof Purple 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched, poppy, and clacky sound that is sharp and crisp when pressed, making it stand out for those who prefer a more distinctive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is unavailable, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth, buttery typing experience with a lively feel and responsive feedback. The keys glide effortlessly with reduced friction, giving a refined and sleek sensation with each keystroke. Conversely, details on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch are not provided, making it challenging to assess how it compares to the Cream Black Pro switch in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch excels in delivering a unique, high-pitched and clacky sound paired with a creamy, bouncy, and polished feel, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking a top-quality typing experience. While information on the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is limited, based on the available information, it is clear that the Cream Black Pro switch offers a range of desirable characteristics that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, but opting for the Cream Black Pro switch is likely to provide a similar level of quality and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a high-pitched and smooth typing experience that offers a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished sensation, the V3 Cream Black Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch without a specific description for sound and feel, the Dustproof Purple might be more to your liking. Ultimately, prioritize your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
