Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Kailh BCP 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 Kailh BCP both offer unique experiences tailored to different user preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 stands out as a budget-friendly option, delivering a harmonious blend of a satisfying poppy, clacky sound with a smooth and creamy tactile feel. This makes it a great choice for users who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switch reimagines the classic Black Cherry Pie style with custom-molded designs that provide a distinct bouncy and elastic feel, pairing well with its own signature clacky sound. While the BCP appeals to those who appreciate a unique tactile experience without the need for disassembly, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro caters to those looking for an engaging and polished typing 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
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Kailh BCP switches feature distinctly different materials for their top housing, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the switch is actuated. The polycarbonate's clarity also enhances the light diffusion for RGB setups, making the light effects more vivid and pronounced. In contrast, the Kailh BCP employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, providing a more muted auditory experience compared to the sharper notes produced by polycarbonate.
Both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Kailh BCP switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to similarities in the auditory experience when bottoming out. As nylon is a classic material for this purpose, it contributes a deeper and rounder sound profile that is common to both switches during the actuation phase. The nylon absorbs sound, which offsets the clearer, more resonant notes produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Because both switches share a nylon bottom housing, users can expect a comparable fullness in the sound when both switches are pressed down, resulting in a harmonious bottom-out feel that enriches typing satisfaction.
Ultimately, the combination of materials used in both switches creates a unique balance of sound and feel. The contrasting top housing materials create different audio qualities, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro producing a prominent higher pitch and the Kailh BCP delivering a softer tonal experience. However, the shared nylon bottom housing helps meld some of these characteristics, ensuring that both switches maintain a depth in sound when pressed. This dual-material approach allows each switch to showcase its unique attributes while still retaining similarities that can satisfy both enthusiasts who prefer clarity in their typing experience as well as those who enjoy a fuller sound.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, one can observe notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Kailh BCP slightly increases these numbers with an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This comparison reveals that the Akko switch is the lighter option, making it suitable for users who prefer less resistance for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh BCP offers a heavier feel, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have similar actuation and bottom out forces, with the BCP being moderately heavier, which might appeal to users who favor tactile feedback in their typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, it's evident that they differ slightly, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offering a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Kailh BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the V3 Cream Yellow Pro the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time, particularly favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP, with its longer travel distance, may cater to users who appreciate a more substantial feel and depth in their keystrokes. Overall, these distinctions highlight the choice between a more responsive experience versus a more traditional, hearty 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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Kailh BCP linear switches offer a similar auditory experience. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is characterized by a poppy, clacky sound that delivers a vibrant auditory feedback, making it ideal for users who appreciate expressive keystrokes. On the other hand, the BCP switch also features a clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a crisp and bright tone. Consequently, users can expect a dynamic sonic landscape with either switch, although variations in sound might arise due to different keyboard builds and keycaps.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro stands out for its easy-to-press and polished characteristics. It requires minimal force for actuation, which can greatly reduce finger fatigue and allows for effortless typing in extended sessions. The snappy response adds an exhilarating element, making typing feel highly responsive. Conversely, the Kailh BCP switch highlights a bouncy and creamy feel, providing an elastic feedback that enhances the typing experience with a lively rebound. The buttery smoothness of the BCP also contributes to reduced friction, allowing for a luxurious glide across the keys. While both switches emphasize comfort, their tactile feedback profiles offer differing sensations during use.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Kailh BCP linear switches cater to enthusiasts seeking enjoyable typing experiences, although they each have subtle distinctions. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is focused on effortless actuation, snappiness, and a polished feel, while the BCP offers a bouncier, creamier experience with its elastic feedback. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results for keyboard users, making it possible to achieve an enjoyable typing experience regardless of which option you select, provided that you consider your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option that delivers a lively auditory experience with a moderately easy press, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is an excellent pick. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams combined with its snappy feel will make it perfect for extended gaming or typing sessions, especially if you enjoy a switch that feels polished and easy to actuate without straining your fingers. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that offers a more robust, medium-heavy resistance and a distinctive bouncy and creamy typing experience, you should opt for the Kailh BCP. Its slightly higher bottom-out force of 63.5 grams may provide a satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. The BCP's unique blend of elasticity and a poppy sound profile makes it ideal for users who want a lively and engaging typing experience. In the end, both switches have their strengths, so choosing the right one will hinge on your specific needs regarding sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
