Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry MX Speed Silver offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch that boasts a satisfyingly smooth and poppy sound profile, making it a great choice for users who enjoy a tactile feedback paired with a creamy sensation. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is a linear switch designed for rapid response and maximum speed, ideal for gamers who prioritize quick trigger actions. While both switches have their unique qualities, determining the best switch for you ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder tone. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, while the MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and clarity. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature.
Although both switches have nylon bottom housings, the differentiation in their top housings plays a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. While pressing down on the V3 Cream Blue Pro, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be more prominent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro will create a more distinct and sharp sound upon key release, while the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver will result in a deeper and fuller tone. Overall, the material composition of the housing in each switch contributes to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the lighter 30 grams actuation force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver. When it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro also requires a heavier force of 55 grams, as opposed to the Cherry MX Speed Silver which has an unknown bottom out force. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-light actuation and bottom out forces, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver offers a lighter touch for those looking to type for longer periods of time. Both switches offer different experiences based on the weight of force required, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. The Cherry MX Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro to be more abrupt, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press response.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, paired with a creamy tactile sensation that appeals to users who enjoy lively audible feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound experiences, and the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is often described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The MX Speed Silver switch, on the other hand, is known for its textured feel, which may not be as smooth as the polished feel of the Cream Blue Pro switch. Again, the decision between the two switches depends on the user's preference for the level of tactility and smoothness they prefer in their typing experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Whether you prefer the poppy and clacky sound of the Cream Blue Pro switch or the thocky and low-pitched sound of the Speed Silver switch, both switches deliver quality performance within their respective categories. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person or listening to sound tests can help make the final decision based on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch or the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and use case. If you value a tactile typing experience with a moderate bottom out force and audible feedback, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a great option, especially for budget-conscious users who still want quality. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and instant response, particularly for gaming where every millisecond counts, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is the way to go with its linear action and low spring resistance. Both switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, so it's important to consider what matters most to you in a keyboard switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Cherry MX Speed Silver depends on your individual preferences and needs.
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