Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX EMO mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to personal preferences and priorities. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that appeals to budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking a satisfying auditory experience with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the HMX EMO, also a linear switch, boasts a lively and clacky feel with an exceptionally light bottom-out force for an effortless typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them depends on whether you prioritize the poppy sound and smoothness of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, or the clacky feel and feather-light touch of the HMX EMO. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX EMO, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. This similarity in housing material between the two keyboards suggests that users can expect a consistent sound experience in terms of key presses and releases.
On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, while the HMX EMO also opts for nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound. This material choice for the bottom housing of both keyboards indicates that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced when bottoming out the keys.
Overall, while both keyboards share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, the differentiation in the bottom housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX EMO. The nylon bottom housing of both keyboards contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the unique characteristics of polycarbonate in the top housing create a sharper, crisper sound. Ultimately, users may prefer one material over the other based on their personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, one notable difference is their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. This means that the EMO switch will provide a lighter typing experience compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel, while the EMO would be better for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Overall, 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, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the EMO switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow Pro switch. The difference may not be significant, but for some users, even a small variance in travel distance can impact their typing experience. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Cream Yellow Pro switch for faster response times, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the EMO switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so users can expect comparable results in terms of tactile feedback and keypress 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 HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 Yellow Pro linear switch is best known for its poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively, clacky sound with a feather-light bottom-out force. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's essential to consider the entire setup for the desired sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is described as providing an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, making it effortless to type and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, it offers a feathery tactile feel that is light and comfortable for typing. The HMX EMO linear switch, on the other hand, delivers a bouncy typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation that adds to its overall responsiveness and smoothness. The EMO switch is also known for being exceptionally factory-lubed, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable typing experience.
Considering the available information on both switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and HMX EMO linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cream Yellow Pro provides a satisfying combination of sound and a creamy tactile feel, the EMO offers a bouncy and smooth typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Both switches are well-suited for enthusiasts looking for budget-friendly options with distinct characteristics, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound with a creamy tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a great choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts looking for a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and an effortlessly bouncy typing experience with factory-lubed smoothness, the HMX EMO switch is ideal for those seeking a lively and clacky feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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