Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko Rosewood both present compelling choices for linear switch enthusiasts, but they cater to different preferences and experiences. The V3 Cream Black Pro shines as an excellent option for budget-conscious users who still seek a taste of quality. Its unique sound profile—described as poppy and clacky—combined with a notably smooth keystroke, offers a lively typing experience that many find engaging. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switches deliver a richer, deeper sound, characterized by a thocky resonance achieved through a factory-applied lubricant layer. This sound profile not only enhances the tactile experience but also positions the Rosewood as ideal for those who appreciate a more refined audio feedback. While both switches suit linear typing preferences, their distinct auditory characteristics and tactile sensations highlight the importance of individual taste in mechanical keyboards. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko Rosewood, it becomes clear that the two switches utilize fundamentally different materials for their top housing but share a common choice for their bottom housing. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing known for producing a sharper, clearer sound profile. This rigidity allows the switch to resonate more distinctly, especially advantageous for users who enjoy an articulate typing experience. In contrast, the Rosewood's top housing is crafted from nylon, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a notably deeper and fuller typing experience. This difference in top housing materials highlights the contrasting auditory experiences each switch offers, shaping not just the sound but also the overall feel during use.
Despite these distinctions in the top housing, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material means that when users engage with either switch, they will experience a similar deeper sound profile on bottoming out due to nylon's inherently sound-absorbing properties. Both switches will yield a more controlled, rounded sound when pressed down, reinforcing the tactile experience of each keystroke. Consequently, while the tonal qualities differ based on the top housing, the nylon bottom housing ensures that users will enjoy a consistent sound quality and feel from both switches during key presses as they provide that common foundation.
Ultimately, the combination of materials leads to unique yet similar typing experiences. The polycarbonate top of the V3 Cream Black Pro contributes a crisp sound when releasing keys, ideal for those who favor precision and clarity. Meanwhile, the Rosewood's nylon top provides a softer, more muted auditory response that may appeal to users seeking warmth in their typing experience. However, both switches deliver the same rounded sound on impact due to their nylon bottom housings, ensuring that regardless of the top housing differences, users can expect a degree of overlap in sound profile when engaging with either option. This layered approach allows enthusiasts to choose between a brighter or warmer sound while still benefiting from the familiar feel and auditory experience that nylon offers on the bottom stroke.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, impacting their overall typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Rosewood switch is much lighter, with an actuation force of only 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference suggests that the Rosewood switch is better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, making it ideal for a work environment or prolonged gaming. On the other hand, the heavier V3 Cream Black Pro switch may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel and tactile feedback while typing. Overall, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding force sensitivity and comfort during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, we see a distinct difference. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Rosewood, which boasts a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in distance indicates that the Cream Black Pro may provide a more responsive feel, favored by gamers for quicker actuation, while the Rosewood offers a deeper travel that some users might prefer for a more substantial tactile experience. Overall, if you prioritize speed and quick response, the V3 Cream Black Pro is the better choice with its shorter travel, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press will likely appreciate the longer travel distance of the Rosewood.
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 Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 switches provide a high-pitched, poppy, and clacky auditory experience. This sharp and crisp sound is particularly appealing for those who prefer a brighter audio profile in their typing. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switches are known for their deep, thocky sound, characterized by a richer, bass-like resonance due to the factory-applied lubricant. The differences in these sound profiles cater to varied user preferences, making the choice between them largely subjective, though it’s important to remember that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard’s build and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switches excel with their creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished sensations. This results in a smooth and buttery typing experience, where the keys seem to glide effortlessly under your fingers, akin to a silky surface. The bouncy nature of the switches adds a lively feedback that can enliven your typing routine, while the polished finish enhances the overall smoothness of key travel. Specific details about the feel of the Rosewood switches remain unknown, but if they were comparable, one might expect a similarly enjoyable typing experience, although users may want to consider their sound profile when making a choice.
Ultimately, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and Rosewood switches offer unique audio and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. If you prefer the bright, high-pitched sounds and a very smooth and lively feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro would be your go-to. On the other hand, if you're inclined towards a deep, thocky sound with a potentially rich feel, the Rosewood would be favored, though specifics about its tactile qualities remain unclear. Ultimately, one can expect high-quality performance from either switch, dependent on personal taste, desired sound, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko Rosewood linear switches, you should consider both your typing preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, combined with a poppy, clacky sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, then the V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent choice. Its creamy, bouncy, and snappy characteristics make it ideal for fast typists or gamers looking for a responsive feel. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter typing experience at 50 grams, the Akko Rosewood switches offer a deep, thocky sound that feels satisfying with every keystroke. They also provide a more subdued sound profile and a relaxed typing feel, making them suitable for longer typing sessions or a quieter environment. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a more tactile, engaging experience with the V3 Cream Black Pro or the smooth, comforting feel of the Rosewood switches.
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