Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Tomcat offer two distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its engaging and audible feedback, characterized by a lively pop and clack that appeals to users who enjoy a dynamic typing experience. With a commendable smoothness and a creamy tactile sensation, these switches provide not only a satisfying acoustic profile but also a responsive feel that many typists and gamers cherish. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat stands out as a linear switch designed for those who prioritize a seamless and quiet typing experience, featuring Ly stems that ensure a super smooth action with each keystroke. While the Tomcat's resonant sound profile caters to minimalists who prefer a more subdued environment, the Cream Blue Pro thrives in settings where auditory feedback enhances engagement. Both switches have their unique merits depending on individual preferences—whether you lean towards tactile feedback or a linear, silky smooth action. 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
54g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Tomcat share a notable similarity in their top housing material, which is crafted from polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a sound profile that is both sharp and high-pitched, as the rigidity of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance. Both switches will likely exhibit a crisper sound due to this commonality. Additionally, the translucence of polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, further enhancing visual appeal in setups where aesthetics are important. Since both switches employ this type of top housing, users can expect similarly vibrant illumination effects when using RGB lighting, making them ideal choices for those looking to augment their keyboard’s visual experience.
In contrast to their shared polycarbonate top housings, the bottom housings of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Tomcat are also made of nylon. This classic material is well-regarded for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile while typing. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience. In both cases, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall typing feel, giving it a satisfying softness at bottom-out. The consistency between the two models in this regard can lead to an overall typing experience rich in both sound quality and tactile satisfaction.
When considering the combined effects of these housing materials, the interactions between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings become evident. While the clear and resonant qualities of the polycarbonate top impact the sound produced during key releases, the deeper and fuller sounds from the nylon bottom influence the bottom-out feel. Consequently, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Tomcat showcase a meticulously balanced sound profile that leverages the distinct strengths of their respective materials, enabling users to enjoy a rich and immersive typing experience. Thus, despite the differences in switch branding, similarities in material choices result in comparable auditory and tactile characteristics, ensuring satisfaction for users across both options.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally appealing for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This similarity suggests that both switches can facilitate long typing sessions and provide a comfortable feel for extended gaming, making them suitable for users who require ease of use. However, there is a slight difference in their bottom out forces; the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Tomcat is slightly lighter at 54 grams. This means that while both switches share a light actuation force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may deliver a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, which could be preferred by users who enjoy a stronger push feel when bottoming out. Overall, the Tomcat is marginally lighter overall, but both switches cater to users seeking medium-light force options.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance may influence your typing experience significantly. If you favor a quicker response time, the V3 Cream Blue Pro’s shorter travel distance could provide that desired responsiveness, making it better suited for gamers or those who prefer a snappier feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Tomcat's 3.6 mm travel distance may be more appealing to users who appreciate a deeper keystroke, offering a more substantial tactile feedback with each press. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is the shorter option, and the Bsun Tomcat provides a longer 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 Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99 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 characteristics, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch stands out with its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile. This lively auditory feedback not only enhances the typing experience but also satisfies those who enjoy a more pronounced sound, especially when combined with the right keycaps and board setup. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch produces a resonant sound profile that offers a different auditory experience, more subdued and less pronounced than the Cream Blue Pro's clamorous tones. While both switches deliver enjoyable sound, the choice comes down to whether you prefer the bright and playful notes of a tactile switch or the smoother resonance typically found in linear switches.
Regarding feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro provides an accentuated tactile feedback that is classified as "medium tactile." This allows for a responsive and snappy experience, making each keystroke feel engaging without being overly aggressive. The polished finish contributes to a smooth and refined typing journey, enhancing the overall enjoyment. Conversely, the specific tactile feel of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch has not been detailed, but it is known for its super smooth typing experience, sourced from its Ly stems. This suggests that while the Tomcat may not provide the same tactile feedback, it will still deliver a pleasant, seamless keypress, creating a different yet equally satisfying typing dynamic.
In summary, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is a delightful choice for those who enjoy vibrant sound and an engaging tactile feel, while the Bsun Tomcat linear switch caters to users who prioritize a smooth, linear keypress experience. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, you'll find distinct qualities in each switch that cater to different typing styles. Whether in pursuit of lively auditory feedback or silky-smooth travel, both switches offer valuable experiences, proving that you can expect satisfying results in different ways based on your unique tastes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the sensory feedback you enjoy while typing. If you are someone who values pronounced auditory and tactile feedback, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches would likely be your top pick; they offer a delightful poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a satisfying tactile feel that is both responsive and polished. This makes them ideal for typists who thrive on the joy of each keystroke and enjoy the lively experience of tactile switches. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and linear typing experience, the Tomcat switches are the better option. Known for their super smooth feel and resonant sound profile, they allow for rapid typing without the tactile interruption, making them particularly suitable for gamers or anyone who values speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you seek the engaging feedback of the V3 Cream Blue Pro or the sleek, seamless experience provided by the Tomcat switches.
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