Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Dustproof Black, a linear switch, we find two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out for its affordability without sacrificing quality, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with a poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black is known for its sleek design and smooth linear action, making it a quiet and consistent option for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. Both switches have their unique appeal, but diving deeper into their characteristics will help you determine which switch best suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Black, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Black's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing experience. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing.
Overall, while both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the differing bottom housing materials of nylon for the V3 Cream Blue Pro and polycarbonate for the Dustproof Black result in varying sound profiles. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in how each switch sounds and feels when typing. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, the choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a smoother and gentler keystroke. In contrast, the Dustproof Black switch requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, resulting in a more substantial and deliberate typing experience. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the V3 Cream Blue Pro for more extended typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Dustproof Black for a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces will determine the typing feel and comfort level for the user, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3mm compared to the Dustproof Black's 4mm. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Dustproof Black's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Dustproof Black 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 is praised for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, which appeals to users seeking an audible feedback. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is not widely known. It is essential to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is often described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities offer users a medium tactile experience with a noticeable but not overwhelming level of tactility, along with a smooth and refined key travel. The Outemu Dustproof Black switch's feel characteristics are not specified, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch stands out for its lively and audible feedback combined with a creamy, tactile sensation, making it a compelling choice for users on a budget who appreciate a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch lacks detailed information on its sound and feel qualities, making it challenging to assess its performance relative to the Akko switch. If looking for a similar experience to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, choosing a switch with accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished characteristics could help replicate the desired tactile feel and sound.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile with a creamy, tactile sensation, then the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not concerned with a specific sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Black switches might be more suitable for you. Remember to also take into account your preferences for feel, as the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a bouncy and snappy typing experience with a polished finish. Ultimately, choosing the right switch comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you value most.
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