Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Huano Grape Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Huano Grape Orange are two compelling linear options, each catering to different preferences and needs. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is tailored for budget-conscious enthusiasts, delivering a delightful auditory experience with its poppy, clacky sound while maintaining a creamy tactile feel. Its characteristics—being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished—make it an attractive choice for users who thrive on vibrant feedback in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange switch is designed for those who prioritize a light and effortless touch, featuring an ultra-low actuation force of just 40g that excels during prolonged typing sessions. With its focus on reducing fatigue without sacrificing responsiveness, the Grape Orange is ideal for users who value comfort and efficiency. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Huano Grape Orange both feature polycarbonate for their top housings, which leads to a similar sound profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory feedback. Polycarbonate, renowned for its stiffness, lends itself to a clear and resonant sound that enhances the overall typing experience. As both switches utilize this material in their top housings, users can expect consistency in sound detail and clarity, especially when engaging RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate becomes an aesthetic advantage, allowing the illumination to shine through beautifully, thus enhancing the visual experience alongside the auditory one.
In contrast, while both switches are similar in their top housing material, their bottom housings are comprised of nylon, known for its softer composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the higher-pitched tones created by the polycarbonate top. The nylon's ability to absorb sound leads to a more muted acoustic experience at bottom-out, providing a rounded and softer feedback when the keys are pressed down. Consequently, while both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Grape Orange share the polycarbonate top that enhances clarity, the nylon bottom they both feature will complement this sound with additional depth, offering a balanced auditory experience during use.
By utilizing two distinct yet effective materials in their designs, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Huano Grape Orange switches achieve a cohesive sound profile that draws upon the strengths of each material. The synergy created between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom ensures a rich, detailed sound highlighting the crispness from above while grounding it with the warmth of nylon below. Users can expect a satisfying typing experience with a blend of clarity and roundness, making either switch a great choice for those seeking both auditory pleasure and aesthetic appeal in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, a noticeable difference in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, positioned as a medium switch, while the Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. As such, typists and gamers who prefer longer typing sessions may find the Grape Orange more comfortable, as its lighter force requires less effort to actuate. Conversely, those who favor a more substantial typing experience may gravitate toward the Cream Yellow Pro, which provides a heavier feel. Overall, the differences in weight suggest that individuals' preferences will guide their choice, with the Grape Orange appealing to those seeking ease and the Cream Yellow Pro catering to those who enjoy a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Grape Orange has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the V3 Cream Yellow Pro the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances typically allow for faster actuation. On the other hand, the Grape Orange’s longer travel distance could be preferred by those who favor a more pronounced keystroke feel, providing a deeper response that some users might find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference for either speed or depth in a keystroke 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 Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch offers a poppy, clacky auditory experience, making it an engaging option for those who appreciate a vibrant keyboard soundscape. This characteristic could enhance the tactile feedback of each keystroke, creating a more enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, while specific details about the sound profile of the Huano Grape Orange switch are not provided, it can be assumed that its design might lean toward a more muted acoustic profile. However, the sound produced by any switch can be significantly influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycap material used, so both switches might yield different auditory experiences when paired with various setups.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is notable for its easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished characteristics. It presents an effortless typing experience with minimal resistance, allowing for comfortable extended use without causing finger fatigue. This blend of tactile feedback and responsiveness ensures that the typing experience feels dynamic and fluid. In contrast, the Grape Orange switch is also specifically designed for a light and effortless typing experience due to its ultra-low 40g actuation force. This makes it particularly appealing for long typing sessions, though specific descriptors for the Grape Orange's tactile qualities such as 'bouncy' or 'polished' have not been detailed.
In summary, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch stands out for its vibrant sound and an array of tactile qualities, making it pleasurable for users who enjoy spirited auditory feedback along with smooth keystrokes. Meanwhile, the Huano Grape Orange switch emphasizes a lightweight actuation force designed for prolonged comfort during typing. While both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they ultimately deliver unique experiences that can appeal to various mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, it's crucial to consider your typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a more tactile and audible feedback experience, and enjoy a solid actuation force of 60 grams that adds a satisfying resistance, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is an excellent choice. Its poppy sound and creamy tactile feel make it particularly enjoyable for typing enthusiasts who value both auditory and physical engagement with their key presses. On the other hand, if you need a switch that promotes comfort and ease of typing for extended periods, the Grape Orange switch, with its feather-light 40-gram actuation force and effortless feel, would serve you well. This switch is perfect for minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions, making it an ideal option for students or professionals who spend hours at their keyboards. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize auditory feedback and tactile sensation or a light and effortless typing experience.
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