Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue are two remarkable mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for users. The Cream Blue Pro V3 is a tactile switch that stands out for its poppy and clacky sound profile, accompanied by a smooth and tactile sensation. On the other hand, the RedBlue is a linear switch that provides a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. While the Cream Blue Pro V3 is ideal for those who appreciate a lively and audible feedback, the RedBlue is perfect for users seeking a neutral and mild 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches utilize the translucency of polycarbonate to enhance the aesthetic appeal, especially when using RGB lighting. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the RedBlue maintains a polycarbonate bottom housing, which reinforces the sharper and crisper sound signature throughout the switch.
In terms of acoustic qualities, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique balance in sound profile. The sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate top is complemented by the deeper and fuller sound from the nylon bottom, providing a dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue's consistent use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings results in a more uniform sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance. While both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's dual housing materials offer a more varied and nuanced typing experience compared to the RedBlue.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials provides a unique blend of sharpness and depth, catering to those who appreciate a varied sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue offers a consistent and crisp sound throughout the switch, ideal for users who prioritize clarity and resonance. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches deliver quality sound profiles that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 55 grams, while the RedBlue switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the V3 Cream Blue Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the RedBlue switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a quicker and more responsive keystroke due to its shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantive feel when typing. Both switches have their advantages based on individual preferences, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro being the shorter of the two. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 switches offer a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is accompanied by a commendable level of smoothness, providing users with a lively and audible feedback combined with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches produce a relatively low-pitched sound, which may appeal to those who prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Cream Blue Pro excelling in providing a vibrant and tactile auditory experience while the RedBlue offering a smoother and more neutral sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile experience that is not scratchy, but instead provides a prominent amount of tactility with a spring-like rebound sensation. These switches have a polished finish that results in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In comparison, the SP-Star RedBlue switches are characterized by a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Similar to the Cream Blue Pro, the RedBlue switches also have a polished finish that provides a sleek and smooth key travel experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and SP-Star RedBlue switches both offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Cream Blue Pro excels in providing a lively and tactile auditory experience with a distinct sound profile and responsive feel, while the RedBlue offers a smoother and more neutral sound with a gentle and approachable typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can select the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences within the budget-friendly options available.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a lively and audible feedback, complemented by a creamy and tactile sensation, then the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be the better choice for you. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and budget when making your decision between these two excellent switch options.
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