Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Lotus are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer different features and qualities. The V3 Cream Black Pro stands out as a budget-friendly option for those seeking high-quality performance. Known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, as well as its smoothness, this switch is categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Lotus switch does not have any specific standout features mentioned. However, both switches offer their own advantages and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Lotus switches both have their own unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Lotus switch uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. While they differ in sound characteristics, both switches benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile overall.
In terms of aesthetics, the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Meanwhile, the Lotus's nylon top housing may not offer the same visual appeal, but its focus on creating a deep and full sound profile may be more appealing to those prioritizing sound quality over aesthetics. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent deep and full sound profile regardless of their top housing material differences.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Lotus switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in both sound profile and aesthetics. While the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, the Outemu Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound experience with its nylon top housing. However, both switches share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound quality regardless of their top housing material differences. Whether prioritizing RGB lighting compatibility or sound quality, both switches offer unique housing materials to cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Cream Black Pro is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lotus makes it easier for users to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue, which is ideal for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different benefits to users based on their preferences for actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Lotus linear switches is 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the user will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of which one is being used.
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 Lotus 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 comparing the subjective qualities of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out in terms of sound with its high-pitched and poppy sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp typing experience. The Lotus switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's hard to directly compare the two in this aspect. Moving on to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro excels in providing a creamy and bouncy typing sensation, offering a smooth and buttery feel with a spring-like feedback. On the other hand, details about the feel of the Lotus switch are not provided, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a high-pitched and poppy sound profile, as well as a creamy and bouncy typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch would be a great choice. However, for those interested in the Outemu Lotus switch, it may also provide similar results depending on personal preference and the overall setup of your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a unique poppy and clacky sound, as well as a smooth typing experience, then the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a linear switch with no specific standout features, then the Outemu Lotus might be more suitable for you. Consider your preferences for sound and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Lotus depends on what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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