Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch both offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro is perfect for those on a budget who still desire high-quality switches, boasting a poppy and clacky sound combined with exceptional smoothness. In contrast, the Taro switch provides a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Cream Black Pro is categorized as 'Creamy' and 'High-pitched', the Taro switch is labeled as 'Neutral' and 'Buttery'. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses based on sound and feel, but ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal preference. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jwick Taro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches use polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both keyboards. However, the differences come when comparing the nylon bottom housings of the two switches. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Taro's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in the nylon bottom housings of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jwick Taro provide unique typing experiences. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound profile with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the Taro's nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. These differences in housing materials showcase how the bottom housing can greatly influence the typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jwick Taro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their nylon bottom housings create unique typing experiences for users. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Taro's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller typing experience, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we can see differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Black Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Taro has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams. The V3 Cream Black Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force, but both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force. This means that while the V3 Cream Black Pro may require less force to trigger a keystroke, both switches will feel similar when fully pressed down. 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, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the Taro switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly deeper feel compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 switch is characterized by a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed, which can be appealing for those who prefer this type of profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches will provide satisfying auditory feedback, with the V3 Cream Black Pro leaning towards a more vibrant and lively sound, while the Taro switch offers a more subtle and versatile sound experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lively feel and enhanced responsiveness. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switch is characterized as buttery and stepped, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild tactile feedback that includes distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. Both switches excel in delivering a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, catering to different preferences in terms of tactility and responsiveness.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a high-pitched, lively sound with a creamy and bouncy feel, or a neutral, versatile sound with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, ensuring that each user will find a switch that aligns with their personal preferences and typing requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a high-pitched and smooth typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the V3 Cream Black Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a cozy and tactile typing experience that also has a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Taro switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer and which switch aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
