Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry MX Brown are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out for its budget-friendly yet quality build, offering a poppy and clacky sound profile paired with smooth tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is known for its subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactile feedback and subdued audio, perfect for users who prefer a more muted approach to typing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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 Cherry MX Brown both feature nylon bottom housings, which create a deep and full sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro is ideal for those who want to showcase RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency.
While both switches feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deep and full sound profile, the V3 Cream Blue Pro and Cherry MX Brown differ in their top housing materials. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a unique sharp and crisp sound profile, while the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. Additionally, the split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings in each switch can impact the overall sound and feel when typing on them.
In summary, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry MX Brown both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out with its sharp and crisp polycarbonate top housing, the Cherry MX Brown provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches share nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deep and full sound profile when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch have similar actuation forces at 45 grams and bottom out forces at 55 grams, making them both medium-light switches. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes and bottoming out. For some, the lighter actuation force may be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and the desired weight of key presses.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a longer travel distance of 4mm. This means that the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly quicker key press response compared to the Cherry MX Brown. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial key press feel may lean towards the Cherry MX Brown. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable options for a variety of users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth 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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 offer a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is lively and audible, perfect for users who enjoy feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches provide a more subtle and subdued audio feedback, creating a quieter typing experience overall. The Cherry MX Browns are known for their bassy and low-pitched sound, while the exact sound profile of the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches is not explicitly described in the provided information. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are described as providing an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. These qualities indicate a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, a spring-like feedback sensation, super responsiveness, and a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switches are noted for their textured feel, which suggests noticeable friction during key presses. This texture may appeal to some users who prefer a bit of resistance in their typing experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches offer a more lively and tactile typing experience with a distinct sound profile, making them a great choice for users looking for a budget-friendly option with a blend of audible feedback and smoothness. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches provide a quieter and subtler typing experience with a textured feel for those who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a lively and audible feedback coupled with a smooth, creamy tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtler typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switches would be more fitting for you. Consider your preferences in sound and feel when making your selection between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
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