Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow are two popular mechanical keyboard switches, each offering a unique typing experience. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch loved for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth and tactile sensation. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a lively and audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is a linear switch that offers a silent typing experience with no tactile bump. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different preferences. 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
2.20 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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches intended for RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches sets them apart in terms of sound profile. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile, which can be preferred by those looking for a quieter typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings in these switches means that the qualities of each material are felt differently when typing - with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their nylon bottom housing material. The polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for crisp typing sounds, and is visually appealing for those interested in RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with a quieter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a more subdued sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the lighter option. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light in comparison to the Outemu Silent Yellow, which has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavier option. Those who prefer a light and responsive typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, whereas those looking for a more substantial and tactile typing feel may opt for the Outemu Silent Yellow. Despite the difference in weight, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is sure to meet the needs of users with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent Yellow offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Blue Pro. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the slight variance may impact the feel and responsiveness of the keys when typing or gaming. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Cream Blue Pro, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Silent Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Silent Yellow 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 switch is recognized for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a lively and audible feedback that complements its creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch provides a quiet typing experience due to its silent design, allowing for a more discreet usage. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is often described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities contribute to a medium tactile switch that provides a noticeable level of tactility without being overwhelming, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience with a touch of liveliness. The specific feel of the Silent Yellow switch is not specified, but it is likely to provide a linear and consistent keystroke without the tactile feedback present in the Cream Blue Pro.
Considering all the available information, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch stands out for its lively and audible sound profile, accompanied by a smooth and tactile feel that caters to users looking for a combination of feedback and smoothness. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch presents a silent typing experience and likely provides a consistent linear feel without tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider the bottom out force and your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a poppy, clacky sound profile with a creamy, tactile sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and prioritize a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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