Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, to the Outemu Spring Breeze, a clicky switch, there are notable differences in their characteristics. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is praised for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, providing a unique poppy and clacky sound combined with exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze lacks a standout feature but offers a different typing experience with its clicky sound profile. While the Cream Black Pro is described as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the Spring Breeze has no specific categorizations. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon material is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes polycarbonate, while the Spring Breeze features nylon. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucency also makes it suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in top housing materials will impact the sound and feel of the switches, with the V3 Cream Black Pro offering a more clear and resonant sound compared to the duller and rounder sound of the Spring Breeze.
In summary, while both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches share a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience, they differ in their top housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. In contrast, the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, which may appeal to users looking for a softer and more rounded typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires 55 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze only needs 40 grams of force to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Spring Breeze, as it requires less force to type for longer periods. In contrast, the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Spring Breeze. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Black Pro may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Spring Breeze may provide a more satisfying and perceptible key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distance, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being on the shorter end and the Spring Breeze on the longer end of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Spring Breeze 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
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch stands out in terms of sound with its high-pitched and satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile. It offers a unique auditory experience that may appeal to those who prefer sharper and crisper sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a known sound description provided, so it's difficult to directly compare.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch impresses with its creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished qualities. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a spring-like elastic feedback and snappy responsiveness that result in a polished and refined typing feel. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Spring Breeze switch is unknown, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison on this aspect.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch excels in both sound and feel based on the provided information, offering a unique and satisfying typing experience. While the qualities of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch are unknown in this comparison, it's worth noting that similar results can often be achieved by considering factors such as the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and personal typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. The unique poppy and clacky sound, along with the smoothness of these switches, make them stand out in the realm of mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
