Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that provides a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience along with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Crystal Pro boasts a fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound signature coupled with a silky smooth typing experience.
While the Cream Yellow Pro is ideal for budget-conscious enthusiasts who appreciate an easy-to-press switch, the Crystal Pro caters to those who favor a fully polycarbonate construction for a unique sound and feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches where clear and resonant sound is desired. Both variants are also suitable for use with RGB lighting due to their translucency. However, while the Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer plastic material, the Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate bottom housing that maintains the sharp and crisp sound qualities of its top housing.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile that complements the top housing's characteristics. In contrast, the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile of its top housing, creating a consistent acoustical experience throughout the switch. This difference in bottom housing materials adds diversity to the overall sound and feel of typing on each variant, catering to different preferences and preferences.
While the top housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro provide similar sound profiles, the distinction lies in the bottom housing materials and the impact they have on the typing experience. The split between the softer nylon bottom housing of the Cream Yellow Pro and the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal Pro highlights how each material affects the sound and feel of typing on the switch. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound or a sharper and crisper sound, the choice between these two variants offers a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are some differences to note. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, but the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires slightly more force for actuation. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice, as it has a slightly lighter actuation force. However, both switches provide a similar bottom out force, so users can expect a consistent feel in that aspect. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for actuation force, with the V3 Crystal Pro being slightly lighter in this aspect.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow Pro may appeal to those seeking increased responsiveness, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Crystal Pro may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow Pro for $2.00.
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with its bright and chirpy sound signature, thanks to its fully polycarbonate construction. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance your typing experience, but the Cream Yellow Pro may lean towards a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound, while the Crystal Pro provides a distinctive chirpy sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth and low-impact typing experience. Similarly, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch features a bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and smooth key travel. These qualities make both switches comfortable for extended typing sessions and add a level of responsiveness to your typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Crystal Pro linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences. While the Cream Yellow Pro provides a poppy, clacky sound and creamy tactile feel, the Crystal Pro stands out with its bright, chirpy sound signature and silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, so it's recommended to try both switches to see which one suits your typing style best. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is sure to elevate your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a satisfying poppy sound and creamy tactile feel, the Cream Yellow Pro switches are an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique chirpy sound and silky smooth typing experience due to its polycarbonate construction, the Crystal Pro switches stand out. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize a vibrant auditory experience or a distinct feel during typing. With these guidelines in mind, you can choose the switch that best suits your preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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