Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Brown are both tactile switches that offer unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is celebrated for its budget-friendly yet high-quality design, delivering a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile alongside a smooth tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is known for its durability and reliability, with a lack of distinctive characteristics making it versatile for various typing experiences. Each switch brings its own advantages to the table, catering to different preferences and 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
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
Polycarbonate
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
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for switch housings in keyboards. However, while both switches share this common feature, the V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out with a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
While the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a similar sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. In comparison, the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in a slightly different sound feel when pressing down on the switch. While both switches offer a unique typing experience due to their housing materials, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a more well-rounded sound profile.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches each bring their own unique characteristics to the overall typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the sound profile. This combination results in a more dynamic typing experience compared to the Dustproof Brown, which utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 55 grams, making it slightly lighter compared to the Dustproof Brown, which has a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a smoother typing experience with less resistance, while the Dustproof Brown provides a more substantial and firm feel when pressing all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dustproof Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Brown may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Outemu Dustproof Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is praised for its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile that provides a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is currently unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard frame and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished tactile feel. This combination offers a medium level of tactility without being overly scratchy, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience with a lively rebound when the keys are pressed. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch are not available at this time, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of tactile sensation.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth tactile feel that offers a balance between responsiveness and comfort. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch remain unknown, if you are looking for a similar experience to the V3 Cream Blue Pro, you may find comparable results in terms of sound and feel by choosing a switch with similar characteristics. Remember to consider your personal preferences and typing style when selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile combined with smooth tactility, the Akko Cream Blue Pro V3 switches are an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are not as concerned about additional features or unique attributes, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch may be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, preferences for sound and feel, and budget when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer different benefits and it's important to choose the one that best fits your needs.
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