Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Xinhai are both exciting choices in the mechanical keyboard world, each offering unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch known for its poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfyingly smooth and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai is a linear switch that boasts a softer acoustics profile and crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro appeals to those who enjoy a lively tactile feedback, the Xinhai caters to users who appreciate a refined and precise 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
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and resonant properties. The use of polycarbonate is advantageous in switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound depth and roundness.
Despite sharing the same polycarbonate top housing, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and HMX Xinhai differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of both switches influences the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows each component to contribute unique qualities to the overall sound profile of the switch. While the top housing affects the sound upon key release, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience and sound quality.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Xinhai play a crucial role in defining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound, the V3 Cream Blue Pro distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice of housing materials in each switch influences the overall sound quality, typing feel, and aesthetic appeal, catering to different preferences and needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light touch for typing. In contrast, the Xinhai features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, offering a lighter touch overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Xinhai switch, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the V3 Cream Blue Pro. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences based on their respective forces, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Xinhai being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced keypress may lean towards the Xinhai with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and users are likely to get similar results with either option.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 tactile switch is described as having a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that pairs well with its creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is known for its softer acoustics profile due to the unique PA12 top housing, as well as a higher-pitched resonance from the POM stem, offering a more subtle and precise sound experience. Both switches will provide an enjoyable auditory experience, with the Cream Blue Pro being more on the poppy side, while the Xinhai leans towards a softer tone.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers an accented tactile experience that strikes a balance between being tactile without being scratchy, along with a bouncy and snappy response that gives a lively feel to each keystroke. Additionally, the switches are polished to provide a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch also offers a bouncy feel with a creamy sensation, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels silky and effortless. Both switches offer a pleasant tactile response, with the Cream Blue Pro leaning towards a more standard tactile feel, while the Xinhai offers a smoother and creamier touch.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Cream Blue Pro excels in providing a poppy and clacky sound with a balanced tactile feel, the Xinhai offers a softer acoustics profile with a creamy and buttery typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, but users can expect a satisfying performance from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a lively, audible feedback and creamy tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a softer acoustics profile, distinctively crisp sound, and a blend of subtle sophistication and performance, the HMX Xinhai switches would be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
