Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Gold mechanical keyboard switches, the choice ultimately comes down to preference in feedback and sound. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a tactile experience with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, making it a great option for those who enjoy a lively and audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch is a clicky switch, providing a satisfying click with each press. While the Cream Blue Pro is ideal for those looking for a smooth and tactile sensation, the Gold switch is perfect for users who enjoy a more pronounced and clicky typing experience. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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 Gold, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Gold.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, making both switches similar in this aspect as well. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
Overall, while the differences lie in the bottom housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Gold, the similar top housing material of polycarbonate ensures that both switches offer a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether opting for the V3 Cream Blue Pro or the Outemu Gold, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct characteristics attributed to their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, we see that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Outemu Gold switch, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. Despite the slight difference in bottom out force, both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range in terms of weight. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer use, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the better option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Outemu Gold switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has a 4 mm travel distance. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a more responsive typing experience due to its shorter travel distance, making it preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch provides a deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for typing feel and speed.
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 Gold 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 has a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is particularly appealing for users who enjoy audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch has its own unique sound profile, which unfortunately is not specified in the provided information. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is known for its accented tactile sensation, providing a medium level of tactility that is not too overwhelming or subtle. In addition, these switches have been described as bouncy and snappy, offering a lively and responsive typing experience. Furthermore, the polished finish of the switches ensures a smooth key travel with reduced friction. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is not available, making it difficult to make a direct comparison.
Considering the available information, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offers a delightful combination of a distinct sound profile and a tactile sensation that is lively and responsive. These switches are budget-friendly, making them a great option for those looking for quality within a reasonable price range. On the other hand, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch remain unknown, making it challenging to determine how it compares to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and budget constraints.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it's important to consider your preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound profile, accompanied by a creamy, tactile sensation, then the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and are not too concerned about the sound profile, the Gold switch may be the better option. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal typing preferences and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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