Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the SP-Star Meteor Orange 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 SP-Star Meteor Orange stand out as excellent choices with their unique characteristics. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a budget-friendly option for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches provide a gentle and smooth typing experience with a subtle tactility and neutral sound profile. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, making them suitable for various typing needs. 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
57g
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
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the SP-Star Meteor Orange both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The V3 Cream Blue Pro uses a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the polycarbonate in the Cream Blue Pro allows for a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, the nylon in the Meteor Orange absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences based on their respective housing materials.
On the bottom housing front, both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Meteor Orange feature nylon housings. Nylon is a classic material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, contributing to a rounded and mellow sound experience. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch. The impact of the bottom housing will be more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel, adding to the overall tactile experience of each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. The distinct characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon top housings in the V3 Cream Blue Pro and Meteor Orange, respectively, offer users a choice between a sharper, clearer sound and a deeper, fuller sound. While the bottom housings in both switches are made of nylon, providing a consistent typing experience, the differences in top housing materials showcase the versatility and customization options available to keyboard enthusiasts. Whether opting for the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the mellower tone of nylon, users can tailor their typing experience to suit their preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch both fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Meteor Orange has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams. Therefore, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is slightly lighter compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange in terms of bottom out force. The actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare with the V3 Cream Blue Pro in that aspect. However, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be the better choice due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor Orange with its slightly heavier bottom out force could be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Meteor Orange switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Cream Blue Pro switch. The longer travel distance of the Meteor Orange may provide a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, which some users may prefer. On the other hand, the Cream Blue Pro switch with a shorter travel distance could offer a quicker and more responsive typing experience, suitable for those looking for speed and agility in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 praised for their distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively auditory experience that is well-balanced with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a more neutral sound profile, described as gentle and seductive, with a thocky sound that produces a deep and rich tone. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are highlighted for their accented and bouncy tactile feedback, giving users a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming. The switches are also described as snappy and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. In comparison, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a mild typing experience with a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Cream Blue Pro being more lively and bouncy while the Meteor Orange is gentle and approachable.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches excel in providing a tactile and audible typing experience with a lively sound profile and smooth feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a more neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience with a polished finish. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile paired with a creamy, tactile sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a soft and gentle tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch may be more appealing to you. Both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel.
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