Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch that stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction. With a poppy and clacky sound profile paired with a smooth tactile sensation, these switches are ideal for those who enjoy audible feedback and a bouncy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw is a linear switch known for its unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, resulting in a creamy yet lightweight switch. While providing a slightly textured feel straight out of the box, these switches are perfect for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw, the most notable difference lies in their top housing. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, which is exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. While the polycarbonate top housing is more likely to be used in switches with clear housing for RGB lighting purposes, the Nylon & UPE blend of the Keygeek Raw offers a unique sound profile that sets it apart from the V3 Cream Blue Pro.
In terms of the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Blue Pro boasts a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw features a UMPE & Si blend bottom housing, which is also exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. While both materials offer their own advantages in sound profile, the Nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may provide a different typing experience compared to the UMPE & Si blend of the Keygeek Raw.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical keyboard switch plays a crucial role in determining its sound profile and typing experience. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Keygeek Raw may offer unique characteristics with their different housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. Whether it's the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the V3 Cream Blue Pro or the exclusive blends of the Keygeek Raw, users can expect a high-quality build and performance from both switches.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Keygeek Raw has a heavier bottom out force of 57.5 grams, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, while the Keygeek Raw provides a slightly heavier feel when bottoming out. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, making them suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force or a heavier bottom out force for their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, slightly shorter than the Keygeek Raw linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for quick and responsive typing or gaming. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who have a preference for a slightly deeper key press, the Keygeek Raw may be the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more shallow and faster key press, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be more appealing. Ultimately, both switches offer similar experiences with only a minor variation in 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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 are known for their distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of purposes whether you are a beginner or advanced user. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile experience with a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. These switches provide a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience due to their polished finish. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw switches are textured, mild, and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience with noticeable friction when pressed. This can be preferred by users who enjoy a slightly textured feel and a lighter typing experience.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Keygeek Raw switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences. Whether you prefer a lively and tactile feedback with a distinct sound profile or a gentle and subtly textured typing experience, both switches offer quality and performance within their respective categories. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing feel you are seeking in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a poppy and clacky sound profile with a creamy, tactile sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique material blend that is delightfully creamy yet unexpectedly lightweight, the Keygeek Raw might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be lively and audible with the V3 Cream Blue Pro or textured and mild with the Keygeek Raw. Choose wisely to ensure an optimal mechanical keyboard experience tailored to your preferences.
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