Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Everglide Crystal Violet
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a new mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, a linear switch, and the Everglide Crystal Violet, a tactile switch, are two popular options to consider. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly choice that provides a pleasant combination of a poppy sound and smooth feel, perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience and creamy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet offers a lighter operating force and a gentle, stepped tactile typing experience, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed and comfortable feel while typing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Everglide Crystal Violet, one noticeable difference is the material used for the top housing. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Crystal Violet utilizes an ABS top housing, resulting in a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing. This contrast in sound profiles may cater to different preferences, with the polycarbonate offering a clear and resonant sound, while the ABS provides a more muted tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon material, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet features an ABS bottom housing, which results in a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing. While both housing materials offer distinct sound qualities, the nylon bottom housing may provide a more rounded and dull sound compared to the ABS material used in the Crystal Violet.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the split between the top and bottom housing materials of a switch can make a significant difference. The qualities brought by the bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between polycarbonate and ABS for the top housing, as well as nylon and ABS for the bottom housing, can result in varying sound profiles and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and sound characteristics of a mechanical switch.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch. The Cream Yellow Pro requires 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Crystal Violet only needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue may be a concern. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light force range, ensuring users get similar results in terms of typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is ideal for those who prioritize fast response times and prefer a shallower feel when pressing down on keys, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who enjoy a more substantial and satisfying keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches produce a poppy, clacky sound profile that adds a vibrant auditory experience to your typing. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet switches offer a mellow and low-pitched sound that is subtle and non-intrusive, creating a pleasant typing environment. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches offer an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, with bouncy and snappy feedback that enhances the overall feel. These switches provide a responsive and low-impact typing sensation that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet switches provide a creamy and mild tactile feel, with a stepped sensation that offers a gentle and comfortable typing experience. The smooth and buttery feel of the Crystal Violet switches allows for effortless keystrokes that glide smoothly under your fingers.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow Pro provides a poppy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and bouncy feel, while the Crystal Violet offers a mellow and low-pitched sound with a creamy and mild tactile sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a unique typing experience that will enhance your overall mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a poppy, clacky sound and a decent smoothness along with medium bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a great choice for budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a light operating force, gentle and comfortable tactile typing experience with a mellow sound profile, opting for the Crystal Violet switches would be ideal. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a vibrant auditory experience with medium bottom out force or a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a light operating force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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