Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile stand out as top contenders in their respective categories. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch that offers a unique poppy and clacky sound with exceptional smoothness, appealing to budget-conscious individuals looking for high-quality performance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile is a tactile switch known for its immersive resistance and profound 70g bump, providing a satisfying typing experience with a captivating "thocky" sound. While both switches offer their own distinct advantages and characteristics, such as being bouncy and snappy, or having a sharp and accentuated feel, it ultimately comes down to 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, we can see that both switches feature nylon in their bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. However, the switches differ in their top housing materials, with the V3 Cream Black Pro using polycarbonate and the WS Heavy Tactile using nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in top housing materials gives each switch its unique sound characteristics.
When it comes to aesthetics, the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers the added benefit of translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing may not offer the same visual appeal but focuses more on sound quality. Both switches prioritize sound profiles, with the V3 Cream Black Pro emphasizing clarity and sharpness, while the WS Heavy Tactile focuses on creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite their differences in top housing materials, both switches maintain a similar depth and fullness in sound due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing materials in both switches impacts the typing experience in unique ways. The split between bottom and top housing materials allows users to feel the qualities of each material both when pressing down on a key and when letting go. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be more pronounced in the switches with nylon housing, while the top housing's influence on the sound upon key release will vary depending on whether it is made of polycarbonate or nylon. Overall, the contrasting housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offer users a choice between a sharper, crisper sound profile and a deeper, fuller sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force at 55 grams compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Black Pro requires 65 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile requires 70 grams, making the WS Heavy Tactile the heavier option for a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro, which is more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the WS Heavy Tactile for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, selecting the switch with the preferred actuation and bottom out force will contribute to a more satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, slightly longer than the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly more responsive feel due to its slightly shorter travel distance, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch is known for its high-pitched and poppy sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offers a clacky and resonant sound, creating a sharper and more percussive tone that is immersive and engaging. While both switches have unique sound profiles, the V3 Cream Black Pro leans towards a higher-pitched sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile offers a mix of clacky and resonant tones, ultimately providing different auditory sensations for the user.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is described as creamy and snappy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a responsive feel due to a polished finish. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch provides an accented and invigorating tactile sensation with a bouncy and sharp feedback intensity, making each keypress feel distinct and firm. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the V3 Cream Black Pro focusing on a creamy and responsive feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile delivers a more pronounced and sharp tactile bump for a firm and immersive typing sensation.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Cream Black Pro presents a high-pitched and creamy sound with a smooth and snappy feel, suitable for users seeking a refined and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a clacky and resonant sound with an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, catering to those who prefer a pronounced and tactile typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring that users will get different results depending on which switch they choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, as well as a smooth and buttery typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more resonant and sharp sound accompanied by an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, the WS Heavy Tactile switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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