Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Phoenix offer distinct characteristics to consider. The Akko Cream Black Pro V3 linear switch is ideal for budget-conscious individuals seeking a high-quality typing experience. Known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, as well as its smooth feel, this switch is categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a unique and crystalline sound profile. Categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished', these switches offer a different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Phoenix, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This choice provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing. Nylon brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to the V3 Cream Black Pro, absorbing more sound than the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Phoenix's bottom housing.
On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix relies on polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing. This consistency in housing materials throughout the switch may result in a more uniform sound profile from top to bottom. Both top and bottom housings contribute to the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate. While the Phoenix may not offer the variety in sound brought by different housing materials, its use of polycarbonate ensures clarity and resonance in the sound produced.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Phoenix comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The V3 Cream Black Pro combines the qualities of polycarbonate for a clear sound with the depth and fullness brought by nylon in its bottom housing. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix offers a more consistent sound profile throughout, utilizing polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings. Whether you prefer a switch with a more varied sound profile or one with a uniform sound from top to bottom, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Phoenix have something unique to offer in their housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is heavier in terms of actuation force, requiring 55 grams compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Black Pro also edges out the Phoenix with 65 grams compared to 62 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Outemu Phoenix may be the better choice as it offers a medium bottom out force. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that the typing experience with either switch will feel consistent and familiar. Whether you choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro or the Outemu Phoenix, you can expect to get similar results in terms of the travel distance of the keys.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a brighter and more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crunchy sound profile reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, delivering a unique and satisfying tactile experience for users who enjoy a more tactile and audible response from their keystrokes.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch is praised for its creamy and smooth typing experience, thanks to the lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used in its construction. The keys offer a buttery sensation, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease, while also providing a bouncy and snappy feedback that enhances the typing experience. Similarly, the Phoenix switch also boasts a polished feel, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring a sleek and comfortable typing experience for users.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches provide high-quality performance and tactile feedback that meet the needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a high-pitched and sharp sound with a creamy and bouncy feel or a crunchy sound with a polished and smooth typing experience, these switches deliver reliable and satisfying performance for a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, users can expect similar high-quality results in terms of sound and feel from both switches, making them excellent choices for individuals looking to elevate their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound paired with smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or other specific preferences in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best choice for your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
