Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, both switches have their own unique advantages to offer. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals looking for a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience. These switches are praised for their distinct poppy and clacky sound, as well as their smooth feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is favored for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Yellow Silver, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. This similarity suggests that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to their top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon material while the Yellow Silver also utilizes nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials, as it absorbs sound more effectively due to its softer nature. This means that both switches should provide a more subdued and rounded sound when bottoming out, thanks to the nylon material used in their bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material may offer a slight variation in sound and feel between the two switches.
It is essential to consider how the different housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. While both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Yellow Silver share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the distinction lies in their nylon bottom housing. This distinction may result in a more nuanced typing experience for users, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing playing a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the sound and feel desired during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Yellow Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Yellow Silver provides a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches provide unique benefits based on the actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring users can choose the option that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, we can see a clear difference in their travel distances. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch offers a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel to their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 offers a high-pitched and crisp sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and distinct sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, appealing to individuals who prefer a moderate and balanced sound experience. While the Cream Black Pro switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more distinctive sound, the Yellow Silver switch caters to a wider range of users with its moderate sound profile suitable for various preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lively and responsive feel. This combination of characteristics results in a typing experience that feels effortless and refined. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is not specified in the provided information.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile without specific information on its feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and typing experience. If the feel of the Yellow Silver switch is similar to the Cream Black Pro switch, you can expect comparable results in terms of typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch with a unique poppy sound and smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize speediness and responsiveness in your typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch with its light actuation force would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a medium-heavy or medium-light bottom out force, a high-pitched or neutral sound profile, and a creamy, bouncy, snappy, or polished typing feel. Both switches have their own advantages, so consider your preferences carefully before making your decision.
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