Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Lime switches offer distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cream Yellow Pro V3 is known for its budget-friendly appeal, providing a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with its poppy sound and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Lime switches stand out for their lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and muted, silenced operation. While the Cream Yellow Pro appeals to those who enjoy a bouncy, snappy feel, the Lime switches cater to tactile fans seeking a feathery light typing experience. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Lime switches both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, making it ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Lime's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. While they differ in sound profiles, both housing materials offer desirable qualities for a customized typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Lime switches utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a rounder and more subdued sound quality that appeals to users looking for a quieter typing experience. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing materials, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Lime switches provide distinct tactile and auditory feedback based on their top housing materials, allowing users to customize their typing experience according to their preferences.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Lime switches may differ in terms of their top housing composition, both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different user preferences. The choice between polycarbonate and nylon top housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound clarity and resonance. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a consistent deep and full sound profile, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the top housing material chosen. Ultimately, whether you opt for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the Outemu Lime switches, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferred sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that the Lime switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Cream Yellow Pro switch. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Lime switch, which has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. These differences in force can impact the typing experience for individuals. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Lime switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Cream Yellow Pro switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on the key, you will experience a similar amount of key travel with either switch. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a comparable 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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 offers a poppy, clacky sound that is lively and vibrant, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience that is ideal for shared spaces or for those who prefer a more subtle sound. Both switches will provide a pleasant typing experience, but the Cream Yellow Pro will give you a more pronounced and lively sound, while the Lime will offer a more subdued and gentle sound.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience that is effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle and light typing feel that is approachable and comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches share the feathery and polished characteristics, ensuring a smooth and comfortable typing experience, with the Cream Yellow Pro offering a bouncy and snappy feel compared to the Lime's mild and subtle touch.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch both have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow Pro provides a lively and vibrant sound with a smooth and bouncy feel, perfect for those who want a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Lime offers a muted and gentle sound with a light and subtle feel, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a polished and feathery feel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your decision between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more lively and vibrant typing experience with the Cream Yellow Pro or a quieter and gentler typing experience with the Lime.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a clacky sound, and a creamy tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, approachable tactility, and a silent typing experience, the Lime switch is the better option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you prioritize most.
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