Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Red mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for budget-minded individuals seeking a smooth and distinctive typing experience with its creamy, high-pitched sound and snappy feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force for a more substantial feel. While the Akko switch focuses on smoothness and clacky sound, the Wuque Studio switch emphasizes responsiveness and weighty keystrokes. 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
3.80 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Red both play a significant role in the sound profile produced by these switches. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clear and resonant. In contrast, the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. While the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the nylon top housing of the WS Red focuses more on creating a rounded and dull sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon for this component. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, leading to a duller bottom-out sound and feel. Despite having different top housings, the similar nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures that the overall sound and feel are consistent in terms of depth and fullness. This highlights the importance of both the top and bottom housing materials in contributing to the overall typing experience.
In terms of tactile feedback, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Red have distinct impacts on the typing experience. While the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro results in a clear and sharp sound upon key release, contrasting with the more rounded and fuller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the WS Red. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in these switches can significantly impact the user's typing experience and sound preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch have similar weights in terms of bottom out force, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being lighter at 65 grams compared to the WS Red at 67 grams. However, the actuation force of the V3 Cream Black Pro is 55 grams, while the WS Red's actuation force is unknown. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the better option. On the other hand, the WS Red offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly shallower feel when pressed compared to the WS Red. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the V3 Cream Black Pro due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more hearty depth when pressing keys may prefer the WS Red. Overall, both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming.
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 Red 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 V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile that produces a sharp and crisp noise when pressed, ideal for those who prefer a brighter and more distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch's sound profile is not provided, but it can be assumed to offer a more traditional and familiar sound due to its classic material blend. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can vary depending on factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This means that it provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback, enhanced responsiveness, and a refined finish for a sleek typing feel. Conversely, information on the feel of the WS Red linear switch is not available, but it can be surmised that it offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force for a satisfying and substantial feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its high-pitched sound and creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing feel, the WS Red likely provides a more traditional sound and a bouncy, responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches, it really comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a keyboard switch. If you prioritize a unique poppy and clacky sound with a smooth typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force for added satisfaction, the WS Red could be the perfect fit. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Happy typing!