Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Keygeek Keylin stand out as compelling options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its distinctive poppy and clacky sound, which, combined with a smooth and creamy tactile sensation, provides an engaging typing experience that many users crave. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy audible feedback and a bouncy feel while typing, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who appreciate a lively interaction with their keyboard. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin, a linear switch, offers an entirely different experience, focusing on delivering smooth keystrokes devoid of tactile bumps or clicks. With rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, the Keylin is perfect for users who prefer a quieter typing environment and seamless keypresses without interruptions. Each switch has its unique strengths, appealing to different user preferences; 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
38g
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Keygeek Keylin, there are some notable differences, particularly in the top housings. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This material is stiffer than nylon, allowing for higher-pitched sounds that are accentuated by the translucency of the polycarbonate, which is beneficial for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin employs a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound experience. Nylon’s softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, producing a rounder tone that contrasts sharply with the clarity and brightness of polycarbonate. Thus, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro emphasizes clarity and brightness in sound, the Keylin leans towards a warmer and more mellow auditory experience.
Both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, which yields a significant similarity between the two. The nylon material contributes to a softer and deeper sound profile, absorbing sound effectively and creating a more subdued bottom-out sound. As a result, the impact of the bottom housing on sound and feel is comparable in both switches, as the nylon composition aids in achieving a smooth typing experience. Since both models utilize nylon in their bottom housings, the tactile feedback and damping qualities experienced while typing will be similarly rich and satisfying. Therefore, while the top housing differences can lead to contrasting experiences when releasing keys, both switches achieve a consistent, fuller bottom-out sound due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
In summary, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Keygeek Keylin highlight the importance of housing materials in switch design, demonstrating how these materials can influence sound profiles and typing experiences. The distinct choice of polycarbonate in the top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro sets it apart with a brighter sound, while the nylon top housing of the Keylin offers a rounder tone. However, both switches excel in delivering a rich sound profile thanks to their identical nylon bottom housings. This means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, users can still anticipate a similar auditory impact at the bottom-out stage, marrying the two experiences into a harmonious blend of sound characteristics.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch differ in both actuation and bottom out forces, reflecting their distinct typing experiences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a moderate actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for users seeking a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Keylin switch is lighter with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, allowing for quicker and less strenuous keystrokes, making it ideal for those who prioritize ease during extended typing sessions. Overall, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the heavier option, catering to users who prefer a firmer touch, while the lighter Keylin switch is better suited for those looking for a softer keystroke experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there is a notable difference. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Keylin has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer. This means that if you prioritize quick responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the better choice for you, as its shorter travel distance can facilitate faster key presses. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback and prefer a deeper keystroke, the Keylin might be the more appealing option due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for switch feel and responsiveness.
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 Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 switches offer a distinctly poppy and clacky acoustic profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with their lively feedback. This sound is notably pronounced, making them an excellent choice for users who enjoy audible cues while they type. On the other hand, the Keylin linear switches are known for their rich acoustics, which likely provide a smoother and more muted sound profile compared to the Cream Blue Pro's sharper notes. However, sound can often be influenced by the keyboard structure and the keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is characterized by an accented tactile response that is not overly intense, striking a balance that allows for a medium tactile sensation that is satisfying yet not overwhelming. They also provide a bouncy and snappy feedback, allowing for a lively typing experience with responsive keystrokes. The polished finish of these switches contributes to their smooth operation, resulting in reduced friction during key presses. On the contrary, details about the Keylin linear switch's tactile feedback and response qualities are not provided, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons in this area.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switches stand out for their noticeable sound and dynamic feel, making them a great choice for those who enjoy some auditory feedback along with a comfortable typing experience. The Keylin linear switches may offer a different experience, particularly in sound and tactile feedback, but specific attributes are not provided for comparison. For users looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is ideal for a lively interaction, while the Keylin’s smoother operation remains unknown, which may appeal to those favoring subtlety.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch ultimately depends on your individual preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a responsive feel combined with a distinct auditory feedback, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be a delightful choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams offers a satisfying bounce, enhanced by its poppy and clacky sound profile, making it well-suited for those who appreciate a lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you are seeking a smoother, quieter typing experience with a lighter feel, the Keylin linear switch is the better option. With a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, this switch allows for effortless key presses, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming where you want to maintain speed without distraction. In summary, select the V3 Cream Blue Pro for a vibrant and tactile feedback or go for the Keylin linear for a sleek and smooth experience—both are quality options that cater to different typing needs.
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