Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Macchiato 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 HMX Macchiato present two contrasting experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a delightful auditory feedback that many users find engaging while typing. With a creamy tactile sensation and a bouncy, snappy feel, it’s an excellent choice for typists who enjoy an interactive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato stands out as a linear switch, focusing on delivering a silky smooth typing experience devoid of tactile feedback. Those who prefer a quieter and more fluid keystroke will likely gravitate toward the Macchiato for its bright sound profile and seamless operation. Both switches cater to different user preferences—whether you crave auditory feedback and tactile sensations or prefer a smooth, linear 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
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Macchiato exhibit contrasting characteristics in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing renowned for its ability to deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffness allows the polycarbonate to resonate more clearly, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate enhanced auditory feedback, especially when using RGB lighting. In contrast, the Macchiato’s top housing is made of nylon, a material known for its softer composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s ability to dull the sharper notes allows a warmer auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer a more rounded and dampened sound when typing.
Both switches share a common material for their bottom housing: nylon. This shared material contributes to the typing experience by allowing for a fuller sound profile when a key is pressed down. The inherent characteristics of nylon, being softer and more absorbent, mean that both switches will perform similarly in terms of sound depth and richness during usage. The bottom-out sound produced by either switch will carry the same deep, rounded quality attributed to the nylon housing, regardless of the differences found in the top materials. As such, users can expect consistency in this aspect of performance, ensuring a pleasant typing experience across both models.
Ultimately, while the top housing materials of the two switches vary significantly—polycarbonate for the V3 Cream Blue Pro and nylon for the Macchiato—their shared nylon bottom housing results in a common auditory experience when the key is pressed down. The differences in the top housing materials focus on how the sound is perceived when releasing the key. Consequently, those seeking a more dynamic, resonant sound can lean towards the polycarbonate top of the V3 Cream Blue Pro, while those who appreciate a deeper, more muted auditory experience will favor the warmer sound profile of the Macchiato's nylon housing. Together, these distinctions create unique yet complementary experiences in typing both switches and how they cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, one can see notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as light. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may find the Macchiato switch more comfortable, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. However, those who value a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the V3 Cream Blue Pro for its slightly heavier feel, which could contribute to a more robust tactile response when bottoming out. Ultimately, if you're seeking a lighter switch, the Macchiato is the clear choice, whereas the V3 Cream Blue Pro may appeal to those desiring a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is measured at 3.3 mm, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the V3 Cream Blue Pro the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that may be appealing to gamers who favor quicker key presses. In contrast, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Macchiato switch offers a more pronounced depth when typing, which some users may prefer for a more substantial tactile experience. Therefore, if you're seeking quick responses, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the better choice, while those who appreciate a hearty feel might opt for the Macchiato switch.
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 Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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
The sound profile of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is characterized by a distinct poppy and clacky tone, which many users enjoy for its lively auditory feedback. This makes it particularly satisfying for typists who thrive on an engaging, acoustic experience while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato switch is noted for its bright sound profile, which contributes to a pleasant auditory feedback as well. Both switches deliver a notable auditory sensation; however, the V3 Cream Blue Pro leans more towards a lively clack, while the Macchiato focuses more on a smooth brightness. It is essential to remember that the sound of either switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction, choice of keycaps, and overall setup.
When examining the feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro boasts a unique tactile sensation that can be described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This combination results in a typing experience that is both lively and satisfying, as the tactile bump is prominent yet not overwhelming, providing a balanced tactile feedback without excessive scratchiness. The Macchiato switch is designed to offer a silky smooth typing experience, although its specific tactile feedback characteristics remain unspecified. Given the V3 Cream Blue Pro’s complexity in feel, it may result in a vastly different experience compared to the more straightforward smoothness of the Macchiato.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and HMX Macchiato switches present enjoyable experiences, each catering to different preferences in sound and feel. The V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out with its lively auditory profile and multifaceted tactile feedback, while the Macchiato offers a simpler, smooth experience with a bright sound. If you appreciate a more textured and dynamic typing feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be more suitable; conversely, if you prefer a smooth, linear experience, the Macchiato could be your go-to choice. Overall, the choice between these switches will largely depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a seamless typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, your personal typing preferences and intended usage will guide your choice. If you relish a lively typing experience characterized by audible feedback and a pronounced tactile feeling, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams makes it an excellent option for those who enjoy an engaging auditory and sensory interaction while typing. It is particularly well-suited for users who prefer a more enthusiastic and bouncy feel during prolonged usage, enhancing both your general typing and gaming experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and whisper-quiet typing experience that allows for swift and seamless key presses, the HMX Macchiato with its lighter 50-gram bottom out force provides an ideal solution. This switch caters to those who favor a muted sound profile and a silky smooth sensation, perfect for long typing sessions where quietude is key. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you seek an energetic typing rhythm or a serene, fluid typing experience.
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