Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Silent Ocean. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is highly regarded for its budget-friendly option with high-quality performance. Known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, along with its smoothness, it falls under categories like 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean is a linear switch that doesn't have specific standout features but is appreciated for its silent operation. Both switches offer unique advantages, 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, contributing to a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, while both switches share this feature, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature and ability to absorb more sound.
On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness. This material choice results in a rounder and duller sound profile, providing a different auditory experience compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing. Despite differing bottom housings, both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, showcasing similar qualities in terms of sound clarity and resonance. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches highlights the importance of material choice in creating a unique typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and tactile feel when typing. While the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Silent Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing provides a rounder and duller sound. Whether using one switch over the other, the combination of materials in the top and bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience and sound quality that users can expect.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them medium-heavy in that aspect. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Silent Ocean switch, while those who enjoy a slightly stronger push feel may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch provides a deeper press and may be more suitable for those who prefer a more tactile feel. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being the shorter option and the Outemu Silent Ocean being the longer option in terms of travel distance.
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 Silent Ocean 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 is known for its high-pitched and sharp sound profile, which may appeal to those who prefer a crisp and distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific descriptions available, making it difficult to directly compare in terms of sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In regard to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is praised for its creamy and smooth typing experience, often attributed to factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch design. Additionally, it is described as bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a responsive and refined feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, information on the specific feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is not provided, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch boasts unique sound qualities and a smooth typing experience with a variety of responsive feedback sensations, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch remain unknown. In the absence of detailed information on the Silent Ocean switch, it is difficult to provide a comprehensive comparison of both switches. However, based on the available information, it is likely that the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch would offer a more varied and distinctive typing experience compared to the Silent Ocean switch.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a unique poppy and clacky sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force switch with a silent operation, the Silent Ocean might be more suited to your preferences. It ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel when selecting the best switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. Choose wisely based on what qualities matter most to you in a switch, whether it be the sound, feel, or overall typing experience.
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