Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro are two popular options to consider. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, providing users with a tactile sensation that is accompanied by a commendable level of smoothness. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also offers a poppy and clacky sound but is categorized as easy-to-press and feathery, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches are great choices for budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its relatively stiffer nature, polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches offer a similar experience with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilize nylon. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Thus, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housings.
Overall, the differences between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro lie in the combination of their housing materials. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound, they each provide a unique typing experience with their nylon bottom housings. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings influence the overall sound and feel of the switches, making them distinct choices for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch with an actuation force of 50 grams. However, they both have a similar bottom out force, with the Cream Blue Pro at 55 grams and the Cream Yellow Pro at 60 grams. This means that while the Cream Yellow Pro requires a slightly heavier initial push, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out will feel similar on both switches. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Cream Blue Pro may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might lean towards the Cream Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent and uniform travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and performance. Therefore, whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Cream Blue Pro or the smooth linear feel of the Cream Yellow Pro, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with an identical travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offers a unique sound profile characterized by a poppy and clacky sound, along with a smooth tactile feel that falls within the medium range of tactility. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch also provides a poppy, clacky sound combined with a smoother feel that is described as easy-to-press, feathery, and bouncy. While both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, the Blue Pro leans towards a more tactile feedback, while the Yellow Pro focuses on a smoother linear feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a quality typing experience from either switch within the Akko V3 Cream series.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a medium-light bottom out force and a harmonious blend of auditory feedback with a creamy, tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a satisfying combination of poppy, clacky sound paired with a smooth, linear feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound profile, tactility, and typing feel.
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