Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Hibiscus offer two appealing yet distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is celebrated for its tactile feedback and lively auditory experience, providing a poppy, clacky sound profile that enhances each keystroke. Its smoothness combined with a bouncy and snappy feel makes it particularly suited for users who enjoy both a responsive and engaging typing experience while keeping quality within budget. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switches stand out for their unparalleled smoothness and lightweight actuation, appealing to those who prioritize a pristine typing experience. With an actuation force that is lighter than 80% of all switches, the Hibiscus provides a satisfyingly soft and crispy sound signature that is ideal for users seeking seamless and effortless key presses. While both switches cater to differing preferences—tactile versus linear, and budget-friendly versus design-focused—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
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
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Hibiscus, it is evident that they employ different materials in their top housings, which ultimately shapes the auditory experience in distinct ways. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This characteristic makes it especially compatible with RGB lighting, allowing lights to shine through and enhance the aesthetic of the keyboard. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus opts for a nylon top housing, a material traditionally recognized for its softer qualities. This softness absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is distinctly different from the crispness of polycarbonate.
Both switches, however, utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which brings a shared acoustic dimension to both models. In the case of the V3 Cream Blue Pro, the nylon bottom housing complements the higher-pitched sound profile of the polycarbonate top, creating a uniquely balanced bottom-out sound that is rounder and more subdued. The HMX Hibiscus, with its nylon bottom housing, further emphasizes the already fuller and deeper sound that its nylon top housing provides. Therefore, while the top housings of these two switches differ significantly in terms of material properties and sound characteristics, their nylon bottoms instill a common foundation of depth and fullness in the typing experience.
Ultimately, the distinction in sound profiles resulting from the polycarbonate and nylon top housings influences the overall auditory experience of each switch. Nevertheless, because both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Hibiscus share the same material for their bottom housings, users can expect a degree of similarity in terms of bottom-out sound and feel across both models. This harmonious combination ensures that while the top layers may provide unique auditory signatures—one sharper, the other rounder—the underlying nylon adds a layer of consistency in sound absorption and tactile feedback. Thus, regardless of the differences in the top housing, users will find complementary qualities that enhance their overall typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch offer different experiences when it comes to keystroke forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which places it in the medium-light category. In contrast, the Hibiscus switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Hibiscus easier to press, which can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons where reduced effort can lead to less fatigue. Furthermore, the V3 Cream Blue Pro, with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, provides a more substantial push feel, catering to users who prefer a stronger feedback during typing. Overall, while both switches provide unique tactile experiences, the Hibiscus is the lighter option, appealing to those who favor a softer touch, whereas the V3 Cream Blue Pro is better suited for users who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Hibiscus features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the V3 Cream Blue Pro the shorter of the two switches, catering to users who may prefer more responsiveness and faster actuation, ideal for gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Hibiscus, with its 3.5 mm distance, may appeal to those seeking a more substantial feel when typing, as the longer travel can provide a deeper and more satisfying keypress. Thus, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
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 HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 Blue Pro switches produce a distinctively poppy and clacky sound profile, an audible signature that brings character to the typing experience. This lively auditory feedback is particularly satisfying for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound. Meanwhile, the HMX Hibiscus switches also boast a satisfyingly clacky and poppy sound, characterized as crispy. Thus, while both switches exhibit a similar sound quality, the Cream Blue Pro leans more toward a lively auditory experience, enhancing the overall engagement during use.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is marked by its medium tactile feedback, described as accented. It provides a prominent, yet not overwhelming, tactile sensation that is complemented by a bouncy and snappy response, making each keystroke feel lively and responsive. The polished finish of these switches contributes to a smooth typing experience, reducing friction for a seamless key travel. On the other hand, while the exact tactile characteristics of the HMX Hibiscus switches are not explicitly described, the emphasis on unparalleled smoothness suggests they offer a different experience, potentially focusing more on consistent keypress feedback rather than a pronounced tactile bump.
In summary, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and HMX Hibiscus switches appeal to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard realm. The Cream Blue Pro provides a vibrant sound and a balanced tactile feel, while the Hibiscus focuses on smoothness, accompanied by a satisfying auditory experience. Users can expect a lively typing experience from the Cream Blue Pro, while the Hibiscus may cater to those prioritizing an ultra-smooth keystroke. Depending on personal preference, both switches can satisfy those who appreciate a livelier sound, albeit with different tactile feedbacks.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and intended use. If you find joy in a lively typing experience complemented by a distinct clack and tactile feedback, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is your go-to switch, especially suited for typing enthusiasts and gamers who appreciate that gratifying auditory response and tactile sensation. Its medium-light force makes it a great option for extended typing sessions, keeping your fingers engaged without becoming overly fatigued. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, whisper-quiet experience and prefer a lighter keypress, the HMX Hibiscus will likely serve you better. Its ultra-light actuation and silky-smooth feedback cater to those who often type at speed or need a keyboard for work environments where noise is a concern. Ultimately, consider the context in which you’ll be using your keyboard and the typing sensations you crave.
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