Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and gaming or typing style. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Sunset Gleam are two compelling options for enthusiasts who favor linear switches. The V3 Cream Black Pro is lauded for its smooth operation and a unique auditory experience that combines a poppy, clacky sound with a "creamy" feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate both performance and an engaging tactile experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, elevates the linear switch experience with its expertly blended materials that provide a gentle top-out and a satisfying clack, complemented by HMX's renowned factory lubrication for a smooth performance right out of the box. While the Akko switch leans into a bouncier, snappier profile, the Sunset Gleam emphasizes subtlety and refinement. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Sunset Gleam feature polycarbonate top housings that share remarkably similar acoustic properties. Both switches benefit from polycarbonate’s inherent characteristics, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of this material contributes to its clarity and resonance, allowing for a distinctive auditory experience, particularly when utilized in conjunction with RGB lighting. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects beneath it, making these switches particularly appealing to users who prioritize both sound and illumination.
In contrast to the top housings, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Sunset Gleam feature nylon bottom housings. The clash of materials between the top and bottom housing creates a comprehensive auditory profile that blends the two characteristics. The nylon used in the bottom housings provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than stiffer plastics. Typing experience on both switches would thus highlight this contrast: the top housing contributes brightness and clarity when releasing a key, while the bottom housing provides a rich, rounded feel and sound upon bottoming out.
Ultimately, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Sunset Gleam utilize the same materials for their respective housings, their distinct sound profiles emerge from the combination of polycarbonate and nylon. This synergy allows users to enjoy a holistic auditory experience, where the crisper sound of the polycarbonate top harmonizes with the fullness imparted by the nylon bottom. As such, whether one chooses the V3 Cream Black Pro or the Sunset Gleam, similar acoustic results can be anticipated, with both switches delivering an engaging typing journey due to their thoughtfully chosen materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there is a clear distinction in weight that may influence a user's typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam exhibits a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a softer touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, users seeking a more substantial typing experience might lean toward the V3 Cream Black Pro, while the lighter Sunset Gleam would be a better fit for those who favor ease and speed in key presses. In terms of forces, the differences suggest that while both switches can provide satisfactory results in their respective contexts, they cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Sunset Gleam features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is longer. This slight difference in travel distance can lead to varied tactile experiences, with the V3 Cream Black Pro offering a more responsive feel for gamers who appreciate quicker key presses. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam may provide a more substantial depth that some users prefer for a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one favors the quicker response of the shorter distance or the satisfying depth of the longer travel.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 produce a distinctly high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. This quality can make typing feel more satisfying for users who prefer a brighter, more defined sound. The sound profile is enhanced by the unique build of the switches, which contributes to the distinctively poppy and clacky effect. In comparison, the HMX Sunset Gleam is known for a subtle top-out and satisfying clack, but without detailed specifications available here, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison on the tonal qualities. Given that keyboard sound can fluctuate significantly based on the board and keycaps being used, both switches promise to deliver a pleasant experience in their own right.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switches excel with their "creamy" typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery glide that ensures comfortable and effortless keystrokes. The combination of factory lubrication and quality materials results in a polished touch, making typing feel refined and fluid. Coupled with a bouncy and snappy feedback sensation, these switches appeal to those who enjoy a lively response as they work or game. On the other hand, details regarding the feel of the HMX Sunset Gleam switches remain unknown, leaving a gap in the ability to compare them directly against the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro’s rich tactile characteristics.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches offer unique qualities, with the former being particularly notable for its high-pitched sound and buttery smoothness. While the subjective aspects, particularly regarding sound and feel, provide clear distinctions for the Cream Black Pro, the Sunset Gleam remains shrouded in uncertainty concerning these metrics. Ultimately, for newcomers seeking quality switches, the V3 Cream Black Pro is a reliable choice, while the Sunset Gleam's performance can only be evaluated based on hands-on experience once more detailed information is available.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom-out force of 65 grams, the V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent option, particularly if you enjoy a distinctive, high-pitched sound paired with a smooth, creamy feel. This switch is ideal for typists who appreciate the poppy and clacky acoustic profile and who are looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality mechanical switch. On the other hand, if you're seeking a lighter typing experience and a more subdued clack, the Sunset Gleam, with its bottom-out force of 48 grams, might be your best bet. This switch excels in delivering a satisfying typing experience with its excellent factory lubrication, offering a gentle top-out and engaging sensory feedback. In summary, choose the V3 Cream Black Pro for a bouncier, more tactile experience if you like auditory feedback, while the Sunset Gleam stands out for a gentler, quieter touch that's perfect for longer typing sessions.
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