Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Twilight offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, even though they are both linear switches. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent option for those seeking affordability without compromising on quality, delivering a satisfying poppy and clacky sound paired with impressive smoothness. Many users appreciate its distinct "creamy" feel, which contributes to a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight presents a slightly different appeal with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, offering a quieter operation while still retaining the beloved clacky characteristics of HMX switches. Its bouncy nature can be particularly desirable for gamers who prefer longer key presses without overwhelming noise. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, but choosing the right one depends on your specific typing style and the auditory experience you desire. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.85 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
Nylon
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 HMX Twilight exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, well known for its ability to deliver a sharper and more resonant sound due to its stiffness. This material not only enhances high-pitched frequencies but also makes the switches visually striking, especially when combined with RGB lighting, as the clear material allows for vibrant illumination. In contrast, the HMX Twilight utilizes a nylon top housing, a material that tends to create a more subdued auditory experience. The nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that contrasts sharply with the crispness of polycarbonate.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housing material, incorporating nylon in each design. This ensures that both models deliver a rounded and softer typing experience when pressed down. The use of nylon as a bottom housing in the V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Twilight plays a key role in contributing to the tactile feedback and the overall bottom-out sound. As the nylon absorbs sound waves more than harder plastics, users can expect a muted resonance that aligns with a more traditional typing feel. Thus, while the top housings lead to distinctly different sound profiles, the similarity in bottom housing may help users achieve a comparable tactile experience.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the V3 Cream Black Pro and HMX Twilight present unique auditory characteristics, while the shared nylon bottom encompasses a common foundation. The sharper, clearer tones associated with the V3’s polycarbonate top housing can provide an invigorating sensation for those who prefer a more defined keystroke feedback, whereas the fuller, richer sounds from the Twilight’s nylon top may appeal to users seeking a softer typing experience. However, both switches will deliver a comforting and consistent tactile base due to their nylon bottoms, allowing users to enjoy similar feelings when bottoming out, regardless of the distinct auditory notes present in each model.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch to the HMX Twilight linear switch, key differences are evident in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who seek a more responsive and less fatiguing typing experience over extended periods. As a result, the HMX Twilight is the lighter option, while the V3 Cream Black Pro is heavier. This difference in weight can significantly influence user preference depending on whether they value prolonged comfort or a firmer push feel in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, the differences are quite clear. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option between the two, while the HMX Twilight boasts a travel distance of 3.85 mm, which is notably longer. This means that if you opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro, you can expect a more responsive and quicker actuation that is typically favored by gamers seeking faster reaction times. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight, with its greater depth, may provide a more satisfying and substantial feel for those who appreciate a more traditional typing experience. Thus, the choice between them depends on personal preferences for responsiveness versus depth.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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
The sound profile of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched, poppy, and clacky quality, creating a sharp and crisp auditory experience when typing. This is particularly appealing for those who prefer the auditory feedback of their switches to lean towards more pronounced high frequencies, making it an enjoyable choice for users seeking that lively sound. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch, while also maintaining the clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches, presents a slightly quieter output due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance. This results in a less intrusive sound, making it ideal for users who appreciate a subtler auditory experience while still enjoying the clacky essence of the switch.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro delivers an exceptionally smooth, creamy typing experience, reminiscent of gliding your fingers across the keys with minimal resistance. Its bouncy and polished qualities contribute to a robust yet refined tactile sensation, ensuring that each keystroke feels lively and responsive. The snappy response adds an extra layer of engagement, making it a pleasure to type on for extended periods. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight also offers a bouncy feel, delivering a spring-like feedback that adds liveliness to each key press. However, there is less information available regarding other tactile qualities of the Twilight, leaving some aspects of its typing experience undetermined.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and HMX Twilight linear switches differ in sound—one being more pronounced and the other somewhat subtler—they both cater to specific preferences in tactile feedback. The Cream Black Pro excels with its smooth, snappy, and plush feel, while the Twilight offers a lively bounciness. Overall, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a louder and more tactile experience or a quieter yet still engaging typing experience; either way, you can expect an enjoyable performance that suits your needs within the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who enjoys a medium-heavy actuation and a satisfyingly clacky sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent option. Its higher bottom-out force of 65 grams offers a more tactile and engaging experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a good amount of resistance while typing, providing a buttery smooth feel that enhances overall typing enjoyment. The distinctive high-pitched sound makes it ideal for users who appreciate more clarity in the auditory feedback of their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and prefer a quieter typing experience with longer key travel, the HMX Twilight is the way to go. Its bouncy feel and extended travel distance make it a fantastic choice for fast typers or gamers looking for a responsive and lively switch. Additionally, the Twilight's subtle clacky sound profile allows for a discreet yet enjoyable typing environment, perfect for office settings or shared spaces. Ultimately, consider how these characteristics align with your typing habits and environment when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
