Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for budget-minded individuals looking for high-quality switches that deliver a distinct poppy and clacky sound, along with a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches are perfect for those who prefer a bouncy typing sensation and a clean, clacky sound profile. While the Cream Black Pro is described as creamy, high-pitched, and snappy, the Polaris Gray is categorized as low-pitched, mild, and thocky. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing and contrasting the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is clear that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a more resonant and clear tone. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboard. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound profile similar to its top housing.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Polaris Gray keyboards exhibit similar sound characteristics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the nylon bottom housing on the V3 Cream Black Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound, the polycarbonate bottom housing on the Polaris Gray emphasizes a sharp and crisp tone. These distinct qualities can be felt when pressing down on the keys, where the bottom housing's impact is more noticeable, and when releasing a key, where the top housing's influence on sound becomes apparent.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in keyboards plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro and the Polaris Gray keyboards showcase the impact of using polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharp, clear, and resonant sound. While the bottom housing materials differ between the two keyboards, with nylon providing a deeper sound and polycarbonate offering a crisper tone, both keyboards deliver a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound characteristics. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for a keyboard can significantly influence the overall feel and sound quality, catering to the preferences of different users.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their performance. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Polaris Gray, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy. The differences in actuation force can result in a slightly softer typing experience with the V3 Cream Black Pro, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray, with a potentially heavier actuation force, may provide a more substantial and tactile typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value quick reactions. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray provides a deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Both switches have their own advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance. However, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker typing or gaming, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be the better option.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 is known for its high-pitched profile, giving off a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can be a preferred choice for those who enjoy a more distinct and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a touch of thockiness, providing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, the Polaris Gray may be the better option for you.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Cream Black Pro is described as creamy and bouncy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. This can result in a satisfying and responsive typing feel that some users may find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray linear switch is noted for its mild and polished feel, providing a gentler typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Those who prefer a more subtle and approachable typing experience may lean towards the Polaris Gray switch.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a linear switch with a high-pitched sound profile and a creamy, bouncy feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch could be the better fit. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup, so consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, along with a high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy typing experience, then the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly heavier bottom out force, a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, and a polished, mild typing feel, then the SP-Star Polaris Gray might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your individual typing style and preferences in terms of sound and feel.
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