Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, users often have to navigate a world rich with varying tactile experiences and sound profiles, and two prominent contenders are the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out as a tactile switch that offers a delightful combination of auditory feedback and a tactile bump, making it ideal for typists who relish a poppy, clacky sound and enjoy a lively feel as they type. Users on a budget will find these switches particularly attractive, as they provide quality without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is a linear switch that boasts an exceptionally smooth keystroke and a deep, satisfying "thock" sound, catering to those who prefer a quieter and more streamlined typing experience. Both switches bring their own charm and functional benefits, whether you lean towards tactile feedback or an uninterrupted, 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, we first observe the distinction in their top housing materials. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, praised for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This contributes to a clear and resonant sound, particularly advantageous when using RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances visual effects. In contrast, the WS POM+, which uses a POM top housing, leans towards creating a more muted sound with a deeper profile. While both materials can generate unique audio experiences, they diverge significantly in tonal characteristics, suggesting that users might prefer one over the other depending on their desired acoustic effect.
Switching focus to the bottom housing, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing that is known for creating a fuller and deeper sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more efficiently, enhancing the overall acoustic experience with a rounded quality. In comparison, the WS POM+ also features a POM bottom housing, which similarly produces a deep and muted sound, albeit with a distinct texture and timbre unique to POM. Since both switches harness materials that promote deeper sound profiles, users can expect a level of auditory satisfaction from either option, but the nuances in their acoustic signatures may become apparent in different typing contexts or individual user preferences.
Overall, the interplay of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch significantly shapes the sound and feel when typing. For the V3 Cream Blue Pro, the polycarbonate top's crispness dominates the initial sound upon key release, while the nylon bottom contributes to a rich, full pitch upon bottoming out. Conversely, the WS POM+ merges its contrasting top and bottom POM materials to create a cohesive, yet distinctly muted audio experience. Ultimately, while the V3 may cater to those seeking clarity and brightness, the WS POM+ could resonate more with users in search of a warmer, subdued acoustic profile. Understanding how these materials interact allows users to make informed choices based on their typographical preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we find both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing them as medium-light options. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of effort required to trigger a keystroke and to press the key all the way down. Since both switches have the same weight characteristics, they cater to individuals who appreciate a lighter switch to reduce fatigue during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, while still offering a substantial enough feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Consequently, those who enjoy a medium-light typing experience will find little difference between these two switches in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS POM+ has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you are seeking a switch for a quicker, more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be more appealing. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the WS POM+ might be favored by users who appreciate a more substantial feel and depth when pressing down on a key, providing a less abrupt transition. Thus, depending on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth, one might choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro for a shorter travel sensation or the Wuque Studio WS POM+ for a deeper, more tactile 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 Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 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, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are renowned for their lively, poppy, and clacky sound profile. This acoustic feedback contributes to a vibrant typing experience that many tactile switch enthusiasts enjoy. In contrast, the WS POM+ switches deliver a deep, satisfying "thock" sound that is generally perceived as more muted and refined. This distinction in sound can create different environments for typing; the Cream Blue Pro excites with its high-pitched feedback while the WS POM+ provides a more solid and grounded auditory experience. It's important to note, however, that the overall sound can also depend on additional factors such as the choice of keyboard plate and keycap material.
Regarding feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches excel with their medium tactile feedback, characterized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This combination allows for a typing experience that feels lively, responsive, and smooth, striking a balance that appeals to a wide range of users. In contrast, the feel of the WS POM+ switches is not detailed in the information provided, leaving their tactile characteristics, such as how they respond during different typing scenarios or their relative smoothness, unspecified. However, one might anticipate that the buttery-smooth keystroke would contribute to a satisfying experience that would complement its unique sound profile.
In conclusion, while both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches cater to distinct preferences within the mechanical keyboard community, they do so in markedly different ways. The V3 Cream Blue Pro engages users with its lively auditory feedback and well-rounded tactile characteristics, whereas the WS POM+ offers a deeper sound and a smooth typing experience, albeit with less detail on its tactile elements. Choosing between them will ultimately depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as each switch provides a unique typing experience that can be tailored further with the right board and keycap selection.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch should be guided by your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you are drawn to a lively and engaging typing experience with pronounced auditory feedback, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is an excellent fit. Its distinct "poppy" and "clacky" sound profile, combined with its medium tactile feedback, is particularly enjoyable for those who enjoy a tactile sensation that feels both responsive and lively. This makes it an ideal choice for casual typing, gaming, or any scenario where you appreciate a bit of auditory excitement while you type. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter experience, the WS POM+ linear switch offers a deep, satisfying “thock” sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or office environments where noise might be a concern. The WS POM+ is designed to provide a clean and linear feel, perfect for tasks requiring precision, such as coding or writing, where distraction from noise is minimized. Ultimately, knowing your preferences for sound and tactile feedback will guide your choice effectively between these two standout switches.
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