Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jwick Splash Brothers both stand out as exceptional choices in their own right. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, along with its impressive smoothness. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers also offers a linear switch experience with a shorter activation and a creamy sound signature. While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is best suited for those on a budget seeking high-quality switches, the Jwick Splash Brothers may appeal to those looking for a versatile switch with a great typing feel. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jwick Splash Brothers share some similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of these switches.
On the other hand, the differences in the bottom housing material of the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jwick Splash Brothers can impact the overall typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. In contrast, the Splash Brothers also utilize a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a rich and deep sound profile.
In terms of typing feel and sound experience, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches can significantly influence the overall performance. While both switches share similar polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their nylon bottom housings can impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys. Understanding how the qualities of each housing material contribute to the typing experience can help users choose the switch that best fits their preferences and needs. Ultimately, the combination of materials in the housing of a switch plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko V3 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 Jwick Splash Brothers has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, but its actuation force is unknown. This means that while the Akko switch offers a more substantial typing feel with its higher forces, the Splash Brothers switch is lighter and may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly quicker key press compared to the Splash Brothers. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Splash Brothers with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each individual user is looking for in their typing or gaming experience.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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 provides a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound signature. This can be appealing for those who prefer a more distinctive and lively sound when typing. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches deliver satisfying auditory feedback, but if you prefer a more vibrant sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the way to go.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, thanks to its smoothness and spring-like feedback. This switch is polished, providing a refined and sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a mild and subtle typing feel, with a snappy and bouncy response similar to the V3 Cream Black Pro. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Cream Black Pro may offer a slightly more buttery glide across the keys.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Black Pro excels in delivering a high-pitched and creamy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the Splash Brothers offer a neutral sound with a mild and subtle typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and lively typing feel, the Cream Black Pro may be the better choice, but if you prefer a more versatile and approachable option, the Splash Brothers could be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, and snappy typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a neutral, subtle, snappy, bouncy, and polished typing experience, the Splash Brothers may better suit your needs. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so taking into account your typing habits and preferences will help you make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you as you type away on your keyboard.
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