Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, a hall effect switch. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are an excellent pick for those on a budget, offering a delightful combination of sound and feel with their creamy, high-pitched tones and bouncy, polished actuation. Their satisfying pop and smoothness make them a popular choice for both typing and gaming enthusiasts. On the other hand, the WS Dash switches elevate the typing experience with their refined design, featuring a bright and clacky sound signature that pairs effortlessly with their silky smooth keystrokes. Ideal for users seeking durability and a unique feel, these hall effect switches provide a modern alternative with advanced technology. Each switch has its own appeal, whether you're after budget-friendly performance or cutting-edge innovation, 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
30g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Dash utilize remarkably similar housing materials, which leads to comparable auditory characteristics in their performance. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucency. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the switches when typed on, especially when RGB lighting is involved. The acoustic transparency of polycarbonate plays a key role in allowing RGB lighting to shine through effectively, thereby enhancing the visual aesthetics of keyboards using these switches. As a result, users can expect a consistent sound quality when interacting with either switch, providing a premium typing experience.
In contrast to their identical top housings, the bottom housings differ only in brand naming; both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the WS Dash use nylon for their lower sections. As a classic switch housing material, nylon absorbs sound more effectively due to its softer composition, yielding deeper, fuller sound profiles that enhance the typing experience. This material absorbs the impact noise created when a key is bottomed out, resulting in a quieter and rounder acoustic quality when compared to polycarbonate. Consequently, although both switches share the same structural materials historically associated with their respective brands, the differences emerge more prominently in the sound dynamics with each brand's signature housing.
Overall, the structural design of both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Dash allows users to enjoy similar auditory experiences due to the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms. The key characteristics brought by the respective materials enhance the overall feel and sound emitted when typing, yet support a different aural experience based on each housing’s contribution. The polycarbonate tops sharpen the sound when releasing the keys, while the nylon bottoms mellow it upon bottoming out. Users can expect a cohesive auditory quality when leveraging either switch due to the parallel nature of their materials, which provides a solid balance of performance for both casual and enthusiast typists alike.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, distinct differences emerge in their weights and the typing experience they offer. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a considerably heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that delivers a more substantial feel, which some users prefer for a tactile typing experience. In contrast, the WS Dash switch has a much lighter actuation force of just 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This lighter feel may be ideal for those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue. Overall, the V3 Cream Black Pro is the heavier switch, while the WS Dash is the lighter option, catering to different user preferences based on desired typing sensations and extended use comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, we find that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Dash features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference suggests that if you prefer a more responsive key feel suited for gaming, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, leading to quicker actuation. In contrast, if you favor a deeper pressing experience that offers more tactile feedback, the WS Dash with its longer travel distance may be more appealing, providing a richer feel when typing or gaming. Therefore, while both switches cater to different user preferences, the V3 Cream Black Pro’s shorter travel distance allows for quicker responses, whereas the WS Dash offers a more traditional, profound key 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 Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 is characterized by a high-pitched, poppy, and clacky resonance, making it a delightful option for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp auditory feedback while typing. This sound signature is particularly appealing for users who prefer the more vibrant, less bassy qualities that higher-pitched switches provide. In contrast, while the WS Dash switch also aims for a bright and clacky sound, its description does not mention specific pitch qualities. Given that sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches may deliver similar auditory experiences depending on these factors.
When it comes to the feel of typing, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a uniquely creamy and polished experience, enriched by its buttery smooth keystroke that allows for effortless gliding across the keys. Moreover, its bouncy and snappy characteristics provide a lively and responsive typing sensation, making it enjoyable for both gaming and typing tasks. Unfortunately, the feel of the WS Dash switch has not been detailed, leaving a gap in the comparison. However, given that it is designed as a refined alternative to the Magnetic Jade switch, one might anticipate a similarly enjoyable keystroke experience.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches promise distinct sound profiles and engaging typing experiences. The V3 Cream Black Pro is noted for its high-pitched, clacky sound, alongside a luxurious creamy feel characterized by bounce and responsiveness. While the WS Dash shares a clacky sound signature, its tactile qualities remain unspecified. Therefore, while there are clear strengths in the Cream Black Pro, the WS Dash may still provide a refined experience, though its exact feel may not yet be fully determined. Ultimately, both options cater to distinct preferences and bring unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy key feel and enjoy a satisfying and pronounced auditory feedback, the V3 Cream Black Pro is a stellar option. Its 65-gram bottom-out force offers a bouncy and snappy typing experience, while the unique high-pitched sound adds an engaging element to your keystrokes. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a creamy and smooth sensation while typing, which can enhance both productivity and enjoyment, especially in budget builds where quality is not compromised. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a gentler bottom-out force of 55 grams, the WS Dash is your go-to. With its refined sound and silky keystroke, it excels in delivering a pleasant typing experience that may be ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. The hall effect mechanism adds a layer of responsiveness that many users find exhilarating. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you seek a more tactile and audible feedback from your keyboard or a smoother, softer touch that permits faster and more effortless typing.
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