Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options catering to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, is a popular choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking a high-quality typing experience. Known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, these switches are smooth and offer a bouncy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch, boasts a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. While typing on them, you'll experience a mild and neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both keyboards utilize the translucency of polycarbonate to enhance RGB lighting effects. However, while the V3 Cream Black Pro incorporates a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Purple Sakura also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
The different housing materials of the V3 Cream Black Pro and Purple Sakura allow for a unique typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings offers a balance of sharpness and depth in sound, with the top housing impacting the sound on key release and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura's use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings results in a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a deeper and fuller typing experience. Despite the different materials used, both keyboards aim to provide an enhanced sound and feel for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience. Whether one prefers the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both keyboards offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. By understanding how each housing material impacts the sound and feel of typing, users can make an informed decision based on their desired audio and tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a medium experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions might lean towards the Purple Sakura, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of preferences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly longer than the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. The V3 Cream Black Pro may provide a slightly deeper press compared to the Purple Sakura. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of responsiveness and depth of key presses.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 offers a high-pitched and crisp sound, providing a sharp and distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch presents a more neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The V3 Cream Black Pro will deliver a more vibrant and lively auditory feedback, while the Purple Sakura will offer a milder and more balanced sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound profile.
In regards to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch boasts a creamy and bouncy typing experience, with a smooth and polished finish that enhances the overall tactile sensation. Users can expect a luxurious and effortless keystroke with a spring-like feedback. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, providing a gentle and uniform feel that is approachable to most users. Both switches share the characteristic of being snappy, ensuring a responsive typing experience that keeps users engaged and satisfied.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Cream Black Pro provides a high-pitched and lively sound profile, coupled with a creamy and bouncy typing feel. In contrast, the Purple Sakura delivers a neutral and milder sound signature, along with a buttery and mild typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the vibrant and lively nature of the V3 Cream Black Pro or the balanced and comfortable feel of the Purple Sakura. Both switches guarantee a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched sound profile with a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a buttery, mild, and snappy typing experience, the Purple Sakura could be the perfect fit for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall keyboard experience you are seeking.
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