Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, is lauded for its blend of auditory and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying pop and clack with each keystroke, making it an ideal choice for users who relish a lively typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, a linear switch, prioritizes a quiet and seamless operation, catering to light typists or those who work in shared spaces where noise is a concern, thanks to its whisper-soft feel and lighter actuation force. While both switches have their unique appeals—one for its engaging sound and tactile feedback and the other for its silent and smooth operation—there are key factors to consider based on individual preferences and usage scenarios. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches utilize contrasting materials in their housing designs, resulting in distinctive sound profiles and tactile experiences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffer material allows for a more resonant audio performance, making it especially effective when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g uses a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a rounder auditory experience that allows for a more muted essence when typing. The contrasting characteristics of these two materials highlight the differences in acoustic profiles they offer, tailoring experiences to user preference.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches again diverge, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro made from nylon and the Silent Sakura - 43g constructed from polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro contributes a deeper, more resonant sound that complements the fuller audio profile produced by the top nylon material. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Sakura - 43g infuses a sharper sound into the auditory palette, echoing the clarity established by its top polycarbonate counterpart. This combination of materials means the bottom housing of each switch plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out feel and sound, reinforcing the idea that the choice of material directly influences user experience.
Ultimately, the interplay between the materials used in the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g creates a unique listening and tactile experience for each switch. While both switches utilize pairs of materials that reflect their strengths—nylon for depth and warmth, polycarbonate for clarity and brightness—they do so in a manner that contributes to a varied typing feel. Users may find that despite the contrasting materials, both switches can yield satisfying auditory and tactile experiences. If you prefer sharper notes, the V3 Cream Blue Pro delivers through its combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, whereas the Silent Sakura - 43g appeals to those who favor a richer, deeper sound thanks to its nylon top and polycarbonate bottom configuration. Both offer nuanced results, allowing enthusiasts to choose based on their personal auditory and tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Silent Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a softer typing experience. The lighter actuation force of the Silent Sakura could facilitate longer typing sessions with less fatigue, appealing to users who frequently use their keyboards for extended periods. Meanwhile, the heavier actuation force of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may provide a more tactile and substantial feel, catering to users who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, the decision will depend on individual preferences regarding typing comfort and feedback, as the V3 switch is the heavier option, while the Silent Sakura is the lighter one.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Blue Pro will feel more responsive and quicker to actuate, appealing to those gamers who favor faster response times. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch offers a deeper, more traditional feel that some users may find more satisfying, as it provides a greater distance for the finger to travel before the key is fully pressed down. Consequently, if you prefer more responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the better choice, whereas if you enjoy a more substantial keypress, the HMX Silent Sakura would suit your tastes better.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches produce a distinctly lively, poppy sound that typifies the classic audible feedback cherished by many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Their clacky acoustic profile gives an engaging auditory experience, making each key press feel pronounced and enjoyable. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches are engineered for a serene typing experience, generating a whisper-quiet sound reminiscent of gentle raindrops. This sensitivity to sound creates a more subdued atmosphere, which is perfect for users seeking to minimize noise during typing sessions. It's important to note that the ultimate sound experience from either switch can still vary significantly depending on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches offer a rich tactile experience characterized by a medium tactility that is neither overstated nor subtle. They provide a bouncy, responsive sensation, ensuring that users receive a lively feedback with each keystroke. This polished feel is a result of high-quality materials and potentially factory lubing, leading to a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura’s attributes remain less defined, leaving an element of uncertainty regarding their tactile feedback. Given that they are designed for quiet typists, one can anticipate a smoother, lighter feel, but without specific descriptors available, it’s hard to detail their tactile quality precisely.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches cater to different preferences—one focused on auditory feedback and the other on a tranquil, unobtrusive typing experience—their qualities resonate well within the mechanical keyboard community. Users looking for lively, pronounced interactions will favor the Cream Blue Pro, while those prioritizing a silent environment will appreciate the Sakura switches. Ultimately, your selection should align with your specific typing needs and sensory preferences, as both options promise a distinct yet satisfying experience within their respective domains.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a lively and audible typing experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is your go-to option. With its medium-light 55g bottom out force and pleasingly tactile, bouncy feel, it caters well to those who seek a responsive switch with a poppy sound profile. This makes it ideal for typists who love to hear and feel their keystrokes, making every interaction more engaging. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more subdued typing experience, the HMX Silent Sakura's gentle touch and whisper-quiet mechanism will serve you well. With its light 43g bottom out force, it’s perfect for users who prioritize a serene environment, such as in shared spaces or quiet offices. The Silent Sakura’s smooth linear travel offers a pleasant feel without the distraction of noisy feedback. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value auditory feedback or silent performance, as each switch brings its unique strengths to your keyboard experience.
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