Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, a linear switch, and the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch, hold distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 stands out for its budget-friendly appeal, providing a poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel that appeals to those seeking an engaging auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a more subdued typing experience with gentle tactility and minimal audio feedback, perfect for those who prefer a subtle and textured keypress. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
However, the top housing materials of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches differ, with the former utilizing polycarbonate and the latter using nylon. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while also being translucent for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Brown switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This distinction in top housing material may result in a noticeable difference in sound and typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches feature nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound profile, their top housing materials of polycarbonate and nylon respectively create distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer a crisper and higher-pitched sound with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate top housing or a deeper and fuller sound with the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing, the housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. In contrast, the MX Brown is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, offering a balance between typing fatigue and a substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the MX Brown, ideal for extended typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial keystroke may lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Brown. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances are often preferred in gaming keyboards. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the MX Brown may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more traditional feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offering a shorter travel distance for quicker responses, and the MX Brown providing a longer travel distance for a more traditional 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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience, while the MX Brown switches are characterized by a subtle and subdued audio feedback, giving a more understated typing experience. The Cream Yellow Pro may suit those who enjoy a more pronounced and lively sound profile, while the MX Brown switches are ideal for individuals who prefer a quieter typing experience with a gentle sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, requiring minimal force to activate the keys and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the bouncy and snappy nature of these switches provides a satisfying and responsive feel. On the other hand, the MX Brown switches are described as textured, which may appeal to users who enjoy a bit of friction when typing to aid in tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches and Cherry MX Brown tactile switches offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a more vibrant and lively sound with a smooth and responsive feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a subtler sound with a textured feel for enhanced tactility, the Cherry MX Brown switches could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can suit different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, vibrant auditory experience, and creamy tactile feel. These switches are great for budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Cherry MX Brown if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, subtle tactile feedback, and a more subdued sound profile. These switches offer a gentle typing experience and are ideal for those who value subtlety in their key presses. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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