Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Cherry Nixie stand out as popular options, each offering unique features to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch known for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build. With a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile paired with smoothness, these switches are ideal for users who enjoy a lively feedback and a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a linear switch that is revered for its weighty feel and textured typing experience. Incorporating modern innovations from Cherry's MX2A update, these switches provide a classic yet updated typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, providing different options for users based on their 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry Nixie both have different housing materials in their construction, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Nixie has a nylon top housing. Both materials offer unique sound profiles, with polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound, while nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro is more translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting applications, whereas the nylon top housing of the Nixie is a classic choice known for its sound absorption properties.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches use nylon material, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for both switches. This similarity in housing material for the bottom of the switches means that they will likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistent between the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry Nixie.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Cherry Nixie will come down to personal preferences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro will provide a clear and resonant sound, ideal for those who prefer a sharper typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Nixie offers a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more rounded sound. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you choose the V3 Cream Blue Pro or the Nixie, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles to suit your preference.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Nixie boasts a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the V3 Cream Blue Pro more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier Nixie switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Cherry Nixie linear switch. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a more shallow keypress, making it suitable for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie's longer travel distance provides a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and keypress 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that appeals to users who enjoy a tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Nixie is described as producing a thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a deep and rich experience when typing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro emphasizing a poppy feel while the Nixie focuses on a thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is highlighted for its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished qualities, offering a tactile experience that is smooth and responsive. Conversely, the Nixie is noted for its textured feel, providing users with a switch that may offer noticeable friction when pressed. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro aims to deliver a balanced tactile sensation with its accented and bouncy qualities, the Nixie offers a textured experience that may appeal to users looking for a different typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Cherry Nixie switches both have their unique subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a poppy sound profile and a smooth, responsive feel, the Nixie provides a thocky sound and a textured typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It should be noted that with the right combination of keyboard and keycaps, users can achieve similar results in sound and feel with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a budget-friendly option with a lively and tactile feedback accompanied by a smooth sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier typing experience with a classic feel and updated materials for a modern touch, the Cherry Nixie could be the ideal pick. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize sound and feel characteristics such as clacky and bouncy for the V3 Cream Blue Pro, or a thocky and textured experience for the Nixie. Choose wisely based on your preferences and typing style to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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