Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Cream Pink 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 Outemu Cream Pink offer distinct experiences for users. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch that stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build. With a satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile and smooth tactile feedback, this switch is ideal for those who enjoy an audible response paired with a creamy sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink is a linear switch with a smooth keystroke and no audible feedback. While the Cream Pink may lack the audible charm of the Cream Blue Pro, its linear feel provides a different typing experience that some users may prefer. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
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 Outemu Cream Pink switches, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This characteristic results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the switches will likely produce similar sound profiles when pressed due to the shared qualities of nylon.
On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro boasts a polycarbonate top housing while the Cream Pink utilizes nylon for its top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the softer nylon used in the Cream Pink's top housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice of housing material for the top housing will impact the sound produced when pressing down and releasing a key, highlighting the differences in sound between the two switches.
Overall, the housing materials chosen for the top and bottom of a switch play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. While both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Cream Pink switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials, polycarbonate and nylon respectively, result in distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly influence the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 55 grams, while the Outemu Cream Pink needs 65 grams. This means that the Cream Pink switch is heavier overall in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Outemu Cream Pink with its heavier force requirements. Both switches provide a unique typing feel due to their different actuation and bottom out force levels, ensuring users can choose the one that best fits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Blue Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cream Pink. The Cream Blue Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Cream Pink's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10 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 tactile switch offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is accompanied by a smooth tactile sensation. This makes it a great choice for users who enjoy a lively and audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is not mentioned, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is described as having an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. This means that the switch provides a medium level of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming or subtle, along with a spring-like rebound when pressed. The keys also offer a responsive typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the description of the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is not provided, making it challenging to contrast the two in terms of feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch stands out for its lively sound profile and smooth tactile sensation, making it an attractive choice for those seeking quality switches within a budget. While the feel of the switch is well-documented with descriptors such as bouncy and polished, the sound and feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch remain unknown. If you are looking for a similar typing experience to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, it may be best to stick with that switch to achieve the desired results.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch or the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it is important to evaluate your preferences and priorities. If you value a budget-friendly option with a pleasant sound profile, medium-light bottom out force, and a tactile typing experience that is not overly sharp but provides a satisfying feedback, then the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a smooth linear typing experience without the tactile bump, and are not particularly concerned about sound, the Cream Pink switch could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences, and overall keyboard usage.
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