Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Lucky both stand out within the linear switch category, but they cater to different preferences and experiences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is celebrated for its engaging auditory feedback, delivering a poppy, clacky sound that pairs wonderfully with its creamy tactile feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a vibrant typing experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switches feature a softer, glittery nylon housing, providing a lightweight feel that results in a more neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, perfect for users who prioritize smoothness and comfort during extended use. While both switches have their advantages, one being a vibrant auditory delight and the other a calm, smooth experience, they each offer unique features that can enhance your typing for different reasons. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Lucky, it is crucial to note the differences in their top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer structure, allowing for more resonance and clarity when typing. Moreover, its translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch by creating vibrant light effects. In contrast, the HMX Lucky features a nylon top housing, which offers a significantly different auditory experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is typically duller and rounder than its polycarbonate counterpart.
Interestingly, both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, which allows for a more robust comparison between the two. The nylon bottom housing in both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Lucky contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it dampens sound and improves the overall typing experience. Given that the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, both switches maintain a similarity in terms of how they feel while typing. This shared characteristic allows users to expect a satisfying tactile experience when utilizing either switch, despite the noticeable differences originating from the top housing materials.
In light of these differences, the end results for each switch can still align depending on the user's preferences for sound profile and typing experience. While the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro will appeal to those favoring a more resonant and vibrant sound, the HMX Lucky will satisfy users who prefer a warmer, more subdued auditory experience. The key takeaway is that the nylon bottom housing will provide a consistent foundation for sound absorption, allowing users of both switches to enjoy a rich and gratifying typing experience, albeit with distinctive tonal qualities due to the variations in top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch to the HMX Lucky linear switch, we observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires an actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX Lucky features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. These differences mean that the Lucky switch caters to those who prefer a lighter touch, which is ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a heavier push for those seeking a more substantial feel during typing. Ultimately, if you enjoy a tactile and firm experience, the Akko switch may be preferable, but if ease of use over extended periods is your priority, the HMX Lucky would be the better option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, the two clearly differ. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the HMX Lucky has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is longer. This difference means that, if you prefer a snappier and more responsive feel during typing or gaming, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would better suit your needs. In contrast, if you enjoy a more pronounced and hearty depth with each key press, the HMX Lucky would be the preferable choice. Both switches cater to different preferences, reflecting the ongoing trend in keyboard design where shorter travel distances are favored for quicker response times.
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 Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 celebrated for its poppy and clacky auditory profile, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. This vibrant sound pairs well with the switch's tactile qualities, resulting in a satisfying feedback loop for users. The HMX Lucky linear switch's sound characteristics remain less defined; however, it is known to possess a softer sound profile due to its nylon housing, which offers a quieter typing experience. This variation in sound dynamics means that while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro excels in delivering an engaging auditory presence, the Lucky provides a more subdued sound, potentially appealing to those looking for a quieter workspace.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro stands out with its easy-to-press, feathery, and bouncy qualities. These features require minimal force to actuate, allowing for comfortable typing over long periods without causing finger fatigue. In contrast, the feel of the HMX Lucky switch remains less explored; however, its lightweight design suggests a smooth and satisfying experience. Given that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is polished and known for its refined touch, it is likely to deliver a more nuanced typing experience compared to the possibly more neutral and unembellished feel of the Lucky switch.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Lucky linear switches offer distinct but enjoyable typing experiences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro excels in sound and tactile feedback with its lively and smooth characteristics, making it an exceptional choice for those who prioritize auditory engagement. The HMX Lucky switch, while less detailed in its sound and feel attributes, seems to offer a comfortable and neutral experience that could suit users looking for something less pronounced. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prefer a poppy and engaging experience or a quieter and softer typing alternative, with each switch delivering good results in their unique ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a bit more resistance and a satisfying sound profile, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, with its 60-gram bottom-out force, is an excellent option. It's especially fitting for those who appreciate a poppy, clacky sound paired with a plush tactile feel that enhances typing experiences during long sessions. This switch can also be a great fit for gamers who value a responsive and lively feel, as its snappy actuation provides that extra bit of excitement on every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the HMX Lucky switch with its 43-gram bottom-out force will serve you well. The Lucky's softer actuation offers a deeply satisfying and neutral typing experience, making it a fantastic choice for office work or extended typing tasks where comfort is paramount. Its lightweight design minimizes finger fatigue, ensuring a more pleasant experience over time. In essence, consider your priorities—if auditory feedback and a more tactile experience are paramount, lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro; however, if comfort and a lighter actuation are what you seek, the HMX Lucky will be your ideal companion.
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