Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for budget-conscious individuals seeking high-quality switches that provide a satisfying poppy and clacky sound, along with smoothness. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switches are perfect for those looking for a gentler typing experience, thanks to their crisp sound profile. Each switch is categorized by distinct qualities such as 'bouncy' and 'snappy' for the Cream Black Pro, and 'feathery' and 'subtle' for the Yanyu. 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
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu differ significantly in terms of composition and resulting sound profiles. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its top housing, resulting in a slightly brighter sound profile. While the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softness, the Yanyu's blend bottom housing offers a more pleasant and balanced sound profile.
Despite their differences, both switches offer unique and desirable sound profiles thanks to their housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing brings out sharp and crisp sound qualities, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a brighter and more pleasant sound. Similarly, the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deep and full sound profile, while the Yanyu's blend bottom housing provides a balanced and enjoyable sound experience. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When using switches with different top and bottom housing materials, it is important to consider how each material affects the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the qualities that each housing material brings to the switch, users can choose the switch that best suits their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. While the actuation force for the Yanyu is unknown, the difference in bottom out force indicates that it is a lighter switch compared to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who value speed and precision. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable for typing or extended use. Both switches have their own advantages based on individual preferences, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being shorter and the Yanyu being longer in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 offers a high-pitched profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can be appealing to individuals who enjoy a more distinctive and vibrant sound while typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu features a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is described as having a thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying tone. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its creamy and bouncy typing experience. The creamy sensation provides a smooth and buttery feel, making each keystroke effortless and enjoyable. The bouncy feedback adds liveliness to the typing experience, giving a pleasant rebound when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu offers a mild and feathery typing feel. The light actuation force of the Yanyu switch reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches also share a polished finish, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Cream Black Pro provides a high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy typing experience, while the Yanyu switch offers a neutral sound profile, a thocky sound, and a mild, feathery feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar excellent results in sound and feel from these switches, as they both offer premium qualities at different ends of the spectrum.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a unique poppy and clacky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a lower bottom-out force and a more delicate sound profile, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force when choosing between these two switches.
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