Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) each offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, known for its delightful poppy and clacky sound, achieves a smooth typing experience while being perfect for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking quality performance. Its characteristics—creamy, high-pitched, bouncy, snappy, and polished—suggest a playful yet refined touch that can invigorate your typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) presents a heavier option with its unique PA12 top housing, designed to provide a softer acoustic profile, paired with a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch embodies a sophisticated blend of subtlety and precision, making it an attractive choice for those who appreciate a more controlled typing experience. While both switches are linear and share some fundamental traits, they cater to distinct tactile experiences and sound profiles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), we see key differences that affect their overall sound profiles. The Akko V3 features a polycarbonate top housing, which lends to a sharper, crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic enhances sound clarity and resonance, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice that produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, leading to a rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the V3 delivers a bright sonic signature suitable for those who prefer a more articulate sound, the Xinhai favors a warmer, more subdued audio presence.
Both switches share similarities in their bottom housing, as both the V3 Cream Black Pro and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) feature nylon materials. This commonality is significant because nylon's softer composition contributes to a notable depth and fullness in the sound profile. In this sense, both switches will yield a similar bottom-out sound and feel, characterized by the dampening and absorption qualities of nylon, that dampens keystroke noise. This shared bottom housing material allows both switches to cultivate a comparable tactile experience, despite their differing top housing materials. Thus, users will find that, regardless of which switch they opt for, the consistency in nylon bottom housing creates a common foundation for their typing experience.
Ultimately, the distinct characteristics of the top housing materials lead to varied tactile and auditory experiences when using the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 accentuates the high frequencies, resulting in a brighter sound during key release, while the nylon top of the Xinhai creates a more muted auditory effect. This information suggests that the two switches can cater to different preferences—those seeking vibrant and pronounced sound effects might gravitate toward the V3, whereas users who favor a rounded and softer response may find the Xinhai more appealing. However, the similarities found in the nylon bottom housing ensure that both options provide satisfying feedback and sound resonance during typing.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches have similar actuation forces, both requiring 55 grams to register a keystroke. This means users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of pressure needed to activate each switch. However, their bottom-out forces differ slightly; the V3 Cream Black Pro has a bottom-out force of 65 grams, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) requires only 62.5 grams. Consequently, the V3 Cream Black Pro feels slightly heavier overall due to its higher bottom-out force, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the lighter bottom-out force of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) might be more comfortable for prolonged periods of typing or gaming, as it allows users to avoid the fatigue associated with heavier switches. Thus, while both switches have the same actuation force, their bottom-out forces define their weighted feel, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being the heavier choice.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a shorter keypress, which could be more appealing for gamers seeking faster response times and a more tactile experience. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), with its longer travel distance, may provide a more traditional feel with a hearty depth that some users prefer. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference: those who favor rapid actuation might lean towards the V3 Cream Black Pro, while users who enjoy a more substantial keypress may find the Xinhai (Heavy) more to their liking.
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 Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches deliver a distinctively high-pitched and sharp auditory experience. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prefer a more lively and clacky sound when typing. Their sound profile is further enhanced by their smooth actuation, which complements the overall auditory feedback during use. In contrast, while the specific sound characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch are not detailed, it is crafted with a PA12 top housing intended for softer acoustics. This suggests that, although it may possess a higher-pitched resonance thanks to the POM stem, it may contrast with the more vibrant and pronounced clackiness of the Cream Black Pro, possibly offering a subtler auditory profile.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches excel with a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished experience. Users can expect a smooth and buttery typing sensation that makes each keystroke feel light and effortless, enhanced by the elastic feedback that provides a lively and responsive touch. The polished finish further ensures that the movement of keys is seamless with minimal friction. On the other hand, the specifics of the feel for the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch are not provided, so it’s difficult to make a direct comparison. However, one can anticipate that if it shares the same heavy characteristics implied by its name, it may provide a firmer and more substantial experience, appealing to users who prefer a sturdier typing interaction.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches cater to distinct preferences, particularly in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Black Pro is robustly characterized by its high-pitched sound and a luxurious typing experience, the Xinhai may offer a softer acoustic profile with unknown tactile feedback qualities. Depending on your preference for auditory and tactile experiences, each switch will yield unique results, potentially aligning or diverging depending on additional factors like keyboard construction and keycap choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch depends on your preferences regarding tactile feedback, sound profile, and intended use. If you’re looking for a switch that combines a satisfying medium-heavy actuation force with a unique, poppy sound and a buttery-smooth feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent choice. It particularly shines in everyday typing and gaming, offering a lively and responsive experience that can keep you engaged. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch combined with a more nuanced sound quality and a sophisticated typing feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) will likely serve you better. Its construction allows for a crisper sound and a refined overall typing experience, making it well-suited for those who appreciate subtle performance nuances and may prefer a more subdued acoustic environment. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a bouncier, clacky experience with the V3 Cream Black Pro or a more sophisticated, crisp feedback with the Xinhai (Heavy).
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