Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer unique qualities catering to different preferences. The Cream Black Pro is ideal for budget-conscious individuals seeking high-quality switches that provide a poppy and clacky sound, paired with exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, as well as light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick reactions. 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
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing experience. In terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housings. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing offers the same qualities, providing a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound depth and richness. The nylon bottom housing complements the polycarbonate top housing, balancing out the overall sound profile of the switches.
When considering the overall typing experience, the top and bottom housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and V3 Silver Pro play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switches. While the polycarbonate top housing influences the sound when pressing and releasing keys, the nylon bottom housing has a more noticeable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Both switches offer a unique combination of materials that cater to different preferences in sound and typing feedback, creating a versatile and customizable experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, one notable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream Black Pro has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Silver Pro has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The Cream Black Pro would be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the Silver Pro would be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their different actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches both have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience between the two switches. Whether you choose the Cream Black Pro or the Silver Pro, you can count on a travel distance that provides a satisfying typing feel for your preferences.
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 V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the V3 Silver Pro switches are described as having a high-pitched sound profile, offering sharp and crisp tones when pressed. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound quality of the switches, but if you prefer a more sharp and clear sound, both of these switches would provide similar results.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its creamy and bouncy typing experience. The switches offer a smooth and buttery sensation, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with a lively bounce. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is characterized by an easy-to-press and feathery feel. These switches provide gentle resistance, require minimal force to activate, and offer a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches are described as creamy and polished, ensuring a silky smooth typing feel with reduced friction and enhanced responsiveness.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the V3 Silver Pro switches may have different target audiences and purposes, they both offer a high-pitched sound profile and a smooth, polished, and creamy typing experience. Depending on your preference for a specific feel, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to various typing styles and preferences, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are a budget-minded individual looking for high-quality switches with a unique poppy and clacky sound, opt for the Cream Black Pro. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking switches specifically engineered for gaming with light actuation force and shortened travel distance, go for the Silver Pro. Ultimately, your choice should align with your desired typing experience and usage scenarios. Both switches offer distinct advantages, so make your decision based on what suits you best.
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