Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Huano Strawberry Latte both offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Black Pro is a budget-friendly option that is renowned for its unique poppy and clacky sound, along with a notable smoothness, making it a standout choice for users seeking an enjoyable tactile experience. Described with characteristics like "creamy," "high-pitched," and "bouncy," these switches deliver a dynamic typing experience suitable for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches focus on an ultra-smooth actuation, utilizing the latest mold technology from Huano to create a balanced sound profile that is neither too quiet nor overly resonant. This makes the Strawberry Latte an appealing choice for those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback while still enjoying a linear switch's seamless keystrokes. Both switches have their merits, catering to distinct user needs and environments. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Huano Strawberry Latte are distinguished by their choice of top housing materials, which significantly influence their auditory characteristics and overall user experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which imparts a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's translucency allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and auditory clarity. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which, while also facilitating a clean sound, primarily boasts superior durability and a smoother typing experience. While both materials aim to enhance the sound output, the polycarbonate's stiffer nature leans towards a brighter auditory signature, whereas the POK’s properties offer a cushioned typing feel.
On the bottom housing front, both switches employ nylon, a classic material celebrated for its softer composition. The use of nylon in both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Huano Strawberry Latte means that users can expect a similar auditory backdrop characterized by a deeper, fuller sound profile. This similarity might create a somewhat unified typing experience despite the differences in the top housing. Nylon's sound-absorbing qualities help to create a more muted bottom-out sound, which is vital for users aiming for a mellow and rounded keystroke experience, as both switches leverage this characteristic to deliver consistent performance in this regard.
Ultimately, while the top housings of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Huano Strawberry Latte present contrasting characteristics—polycarbonate's crisp definition versus POK's smoothness—the reliance on nylon for the bottom housing fosters a cohesive foundation for both switches. The combination of different top materials with a classic nylon bottom contributes to a unique interplay of sound and feel. As such, users might find that while the auditory nuances differ, the overall typing experience remains satisfying and grounded due to the commonality of the nylon bottom housing. This commonality allows for a more nuanced exploration of how different materials impact sound and tactility, enabling enthusiasts to choose based on their specific auditory preferences while maintaining a consistent baseline for performance.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch with the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option that may provide a more substantial typing experience favored by those who appreciate a firmer feel. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte is considerably lighter, boasting an actuation force of just 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lighter switch is an excellent choice for users looking for reduced fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to actuate. Thus, the V3 Cream Black Pro is the heavier switch, while the Strawberry Latte is the lighter one, catering to different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches, there is a noticeable difference. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Strawberry Latte measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Cream Black Pro the shorter of the two, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to its more responsive nature. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte, with its longer 3.6 mm travel distance, provides a deeper press that some users might find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and depth, with the V3 Cream Black Pro favoring quick action and the Strawberry Latte offering a more traditional feel.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 is notable for its engaging high-pitched acoustics, producing a sharp and crisp sound that stands out in the mechanical switch lineup. This quality can create a lively audio experience, particularly appealing to those who prefer a more vibrant sound profile over deeper, bass-heavy alternatives. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte's sound profile is balanced, being neither too quiet nor overly resonant. While the specific auditory characteristics of the Strawberry Latte are not elaborated upon, this suggests it offers a more moderate auditory experience compared to the brighter tones of the V3 Cream Black Pro.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches provide a notably creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. The creamy texture ensures a smooth and buttery keystroke that glides effortlessly as fingers traverse the keyboard. The bouncy nature adds an elastic feedback sensation, giving users a lively experience akin to pressing a spring-loaded button. This combination, accompanied by a polished finish, promises reduced friction and refined key travel, making for an enjoyable typing experience. Unfortunately, the subjective tactile feel of the Huano Strawberry Latte is less defined in the available information, leaving a gap in comparative analysis.
In summary, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro offers an exciting auditory presence alongside a rich tactile experience characterized by smoothness and bounciness, the Huano Strawberry Latte presents a more subdued sound profile with an undefined feel. If you favor a high-pitched sound and a creamy tactile experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro would likely be your ideal choice. However, if you prefer a more balanced sound without the sharp tones, the Strawberry Latte may suit your preferences. Each switch caters to different user demands, and both can deliver satisfaction based on individual tastes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding actuation force and tactile feedback. If you gravitate toward a medium-heavy feel and appreciate a buttery smooth, high-pitched sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro could be your ideal match. Its bouncy and polished characteristics provide a lively typing experience that is not only satisfying but also helps to enhance your overall performance, especially in typing or gaming scenarios where precision is key. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter switch with a balanced sound profile and a super smooth feel, the Huano Strawberry Latte would be an excellent choice. It’s great for long typing sessions or for those who simply prefer a more effortless keystroke, allowing for quick actuations without straining your fingers. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style and comfort preferences, whether you lean towards a robust yet smooth experience or favor a lightweight, fluid touch.
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