Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Crystal are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch that stands out for its poppy and clacky sound profile, combined with a smooth and tactile sensation. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a lively, audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal is a linear switch that provides a different typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight. This switch offers a neutral sound profile and a smooth typing experience. If you are looking for a switch that provides a more tactile feedback, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a more linear typing experience, the Outemu Crystal could be the better option. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Crystal, we can see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, especially if RGB lighting is used. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro also boasts a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's additional nylon bottom housing sets it apart from the Outemu Crystal. The split housing materials in the V3 Cream Blue Pro allow for a more balanced sound experience, with the softer nylon contributing to a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Crystal comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a more rounded sound, the housing materials of each switch play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams, making them equally medium-light in terms of weight. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and experience when using either of these switches. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while bottom out force measures the amount of pressure needed to fully press the key. Some users may prefer a lighter weight for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a heavier weight for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Crystal will come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Crystal linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Crystal due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize speed may prefer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for this reason. On the other hand, the Crystal switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Outemu Crystal 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is best known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, offering users a lively auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile that may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the overall keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch provides users with a bouncy and snappy tactile sensation, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overpowering. Additionally, these switches are polished, providing a smooth typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal switch also boasts a polished finish, offering a sleek typing experience with smooth key travel. The Crystal switch provides a unique elastic feel that combines with a medium-light weight to create a distinct linear typing experience.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Crystal switches offer different sound profiles and tactile sensations, both switches provide a high level of quality within their respective categories. Whether you prefer a lively and tactile experience with the V3 Cream Blue Pro or a smooth and linear typing experience with the Outemu Crystal, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch or the Outemu Crystal linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you are someone who enjoys a poppy and clacky sound profile with a creamy, tactile sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique, linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Crystal switch may be more suited to your preferences. Both switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them medium-light switches, so you can rest assured that typing on either will not require too much effort. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you value the sound and feel profiles offered by the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro or the Outemu Crystal.
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