Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry are excellent options to consider. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is praised for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, smoothness, and harmonious tactile sensation, making it a great choice for those who enjoy lively feedback. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry stands out for its sharp tactile bump, ideal for users who prefer a sharper typing feel and a lower-than-average sound frequency. While these are some general pointers, it's essential to dive deeper to determine which switch best suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer a pleasing and unique sound experience based on their top housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the V3 Cream Blue Pro allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro features a nylon bottom housing, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry incorporates a POM bottom housing. Both nylon and POM materials contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being softer and absorbing more sound compared to the relatively more muted sound produced by POM. Despite the difference in bottom housing materials, both switches offer a similar sound experience based on the qualities each material brings to the switch.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches may have variations in their housing materials, they both offer a unique sound experience that caters to different preferences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a clearer and more resonant sound, while the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housing materials offer a fuller sound experience, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the relatively more muted sound of POM. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 55 grams, while the NovelKeys Blueberry needs 80 grams, making the Blueberry switch heavier overall. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the NovelKeys Blueberry. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may appeal to those looking for quick response times, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the Blueberry may provide a more satisfying depth for others. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro being the shorter option and the NovelKeys Blueberry being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and key 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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 provide a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is lively and harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer a lower-than-average sound frequency with a clean and sharp tone, making them an excellent choice for users who prefer a deeper but not overly "thocky" sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro being more vibrant and the NovelKeys Blueberry being more resonant.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are characterized by their accented tactility, bouncy feedback, snappy responsiveness, and polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Conversely, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer a sharp tactile bump, snappy responsiveness, buttery keystrokes, invigorating feedback, and a stiff actuation force, creating a typing sensation that is immersive and responsive. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro being more balanced and the NovelKeys Blueberry providing a sharper and more invigorating feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. Users looking for a lively and clacky sound profile with a creamy tactile sensation may prefer the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches, while those seeking a sharper tactile bump and invigorating feedback may lean towards the NovelKeys Blueberry switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style, as both offer high-quality experiences in their own right.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force, a poppy and clacky sound profile, and a creamy, tactile sensation, then the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, a sharp tactile bump, and a lower-than-average sound frequency, then the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch could be more to your liking. Each switch offers its own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what qualities matter most to you in a keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and it's up to you to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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