Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often face the choice between various types that cater to different preferences and needs. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro stands out as a compelling option for budget-conscious users, boasting a vibrant auditory experience characterized by a poppy, clacky sound and a creamy tactile feel. This linear switch is celebrated for its easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and snappy characteristics, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize smooth key presses alongside satisfying acoustics. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE switch presents a distinctive alternative with its hall effect technology, delivering a clean and low sound that pairs well with Wooting keyboards. This switch may attract users who prefer a quieter typing experience combined with the benefits of magnetic sensing, offering a unique feel compared to traditional switches. While both options cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your style and needs.
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
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Neo Lavender HE utilize different materials for their top housings, which leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro employs a polycarbonate top housing, noted for its rigidity and transparency. This makes a significant impact on sound, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory profile. The clarity given by the polycarbonate is further enhanced when paired with RGB lighting, creating visually engaging effects. In contrast, the Lavender HE uses a nylon top housing, known for its softer, more absorbent qualities. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, giving each keystroke a rounder auditory footprint, but sacrificing the sharper nuances provided by polycarbonate. Hence, while both switches can offer enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different aesthetic and auditory preferences due to their distinct top housing materials.
When looking at the bottom housings, both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Lavender HE utilize nylon, leading to similarities in the overall bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing in both models contributes a softer touch, resulting in a deeper, more resonant typing experience. This uniformity in bottom housing material is significant, as each switch will produce a notably full-bodied sound when a key is pressed down. The effects of the nylon in the bottom housing will dominate the acoustic experience, regardless of the differences present in the top housing. Therefore, typists who prioritize a rounder sound profile will find both switches appealing in this context.
While the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Neo Lavender HE exhibit contrasting characteristics through their top housing materials, the similarity in their nylon bottom housings provides a cohesive auditory foundation. Consequently, users can expect a blend of sharpness from the V3 Cream Yellow Pro’s polycarbonate top and a softer, fuller sound from the Lavender HE’s nylon top. Those who choose either switch can anticipate a rich typing sound profile; the ultimate typing experience, however, will hinge on the preferences for the characteristics of the top housing—crispness versus depth. Thus, both switches ultimately offer distinct yet complementary qualities that can create a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch present a clear contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch that may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In comparison, the Neo Lavender HE switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to those who favor a less strenuous keystroke, which can be particularly beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, users seeking a lighter switch would find the Lavender HE more suitable, while those who appreciate a firmer feel may opt for the Cream Yellow Pro. Both switches ultimately provide distinct tactile experiences due to their differing actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for weight and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, we can see distinct differences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter of the two. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is longer. For gamers or users who prioritize fast response times and prefer a more immediate actuation, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be more appealing due to its reduced travel distance. However, those who appreciate the tactile feedback of a deeper press might favor the Neo Lavender HE for its greater travel distance. In this scenario, if you're seeking a balance of performance and feel, the choice between the two will hinge on your individual preference for switch depth and responsiveness.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 per 10 switches.
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 produces a poppy, clacky noise that can be quite engaging, making each keystroke a refreshing auditory experience. This vibrant sound profile is particularly appealing for users who enjoy the resonance of their typing, whether for gaming or general use. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch offers a clean, low sound that is notably quieter. This subdued auditory feedback could be ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority. It's worth noting that the sound of each switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, so both switches can deliver different auditory experiences depending on the setup.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is characterized by several delightful qualities that enhance the typing experience. It is described as easy to press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, which collectively create a responsive and comfortable experience. Users can expect a light actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue, ideal for both typing and gaming over extended periods. On the other hand, information specific to the feel of the Neo Lavender HE halls effect switch is currently not available, leaving a gap in understanding how it might compare in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing comfort.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is a compelling choice for those who prioritize an engaging sound and a smooth, responsive tactile experience. Its poppy and clacky auditory profile and delightful touch characteristics make it well-suited for a variety of tasks. Meanwhile, the Neo Lavender HE, with its clean and low sound, may cater to users seeking a quieter typing experience, but its tactile qualities remain unknown. If you're drawn toward either switch, you’re likely to enjoy a satisfying experience, but the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the clear favorite for those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory and tactile engagement.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a medium actuation force with a satisfying auditory experience that leans towards a more pronounced “poppy” and clacky sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a tactile yet smooth typing feel coupled with a lively, responsive experience, making it ideal for both gaming and general typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a whisper-quiet operation, the Neo Lavender HE would be more appropriate. With a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, you'll find these switches easy to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Their unique magnetic design also provides a distinct, clean typing sensation that might appeal to those who favor a minimalistic auditory footprint. Ultimately, you should consider your primary usage—whether you lean towards budget-friendly solutions with character or prioritize a refined and quieter option—before making your final decision.
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