Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Red mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in nature, there are key differences to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a top choice for those on a budget seeking high-quality switches for their keyboard. With a unique poppy and clacky sound, paired with smoothness, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch lacks a standout feature but is known for its reliability and consistency. While the Cream Black Pro is categorized as creamy, high-pitched, bouncy, snappy, polished, the Red switch lacks specific categorization. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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 housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Red switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro also has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Red's all-polycarbonate construction.
In terms of sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro with its nylon bottom housing will provide a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound of the Red with its all-polycarbonate housing. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a deeper sound experience when typing. Additionally, the split design of the V3 Cream Black Pro allows for the different qualities of each housing material to impact the switch's overall feel and sound. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Red will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound with its combination of nylon and polycarbonate housings, while the all-polycarbonate Red provides a crisper and sharper sound. Both switches have their unique qualities and benefits, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you prefer before making a decision.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Red's lighter 46 grams. However, both switches have a relatively similar bottom out force, with the Cream Black Pro at 65 grams and the Red at 62 grams. This means that while the Cream Black Pro requires more initial force to register a keystroke, the overall typing experience when pressing all the way down is comparable between the two switches. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Red switch for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Cream Black Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Red switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch. The 0.7 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience for some individuals. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch for faster response times, especially ideal for gamers. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press with a longer travel distance may choose the Outemu Red switch. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when deciding between the two.
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 Red 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 and poppy sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a more distinct auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound of a switch is influenced by factors like the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of typing, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch offers a creamy and bouncy experience, giving users a smooth and buttery typing sensation with a lively bounce back upon key press. This makes typing on the Cream Black Pro V3 switches a delightfully tactile experience. The Outemu Red switch's feel, unfortunately, is also unknown, making it challenging to directly compare it to the V3 Cream Black Pro in terms of typing experience. Both switches may offer similar results, given that they are both linear switches, providing a consistent keystroke without the tactile bump of a tactile switch.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch stands out for its high-pitched sound and creamy, bouncy feel, offering budget-minded individuals a premium typing experience. While the sound profile and typing feel of the Outemu Red linear switch remain unknown, users can still expect a linear switch's consistent keystroke without a tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel, as well as considering other factors such as keyboard build and keycap choices to enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom out force, a high-pitched and unique sound, and a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, you should go for the Outemu Red switch if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, as well as a medium sound profile and feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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