Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a smooth and satisfying linear experience, perfect for those who enjoy a poppy sound and a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry provides a sharp tactile bump that gives a unique typing experience with a lower sound frequency. While the Cream Yellow Pro is categorized as easy-to-press and bouncy, the Blueberry is known for its buttery and invigorating feel. Both switches have their own strengths and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, we see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, while the NovelKeys Blueberry uses POM. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while POM produces a deeper and more muted sound. This creates a significant difference in the auditory experience when typing on these switches, as the V3 Cream Yellow Pro will provide a crisper sound while the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a more subdued tone.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, whereas the NovelKeys Blueberry utilizes POM for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, whereas POM also contributes to a deep sound profile, albeit in a more muted manner. Both materials offer a unique typing experience, with nylon absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone, while POM adds a pleasing quality to the sound without being overly sharp.
Considering the impact of these housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is evident that the choice of materials plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of a switch. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the NovelKeys Blueberry may differ in their housing materials, each switch offers a distinct sound profile that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the deeper, more muted sound of POM in the NovelKeys Blueberry, both switches provide a unique typing experience that showcases the importance of housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch with the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, their actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a more effortless typing experience with a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a more substantial typing feel with a heavier force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile and responsive experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While 4.0mm is considered a more traditional travel distance and 3.0 mm is shallower, the trend for shorter travel distances is gaining popularity, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while others who prefer a more substantial depth when typing or gaming may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 provides a poppy and clacky sound, offering a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch produces a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, with a clean and sharp tone. Depending on personal preference, the Cream Yellow Pro switch may be favored for its more lively sound, while the Blueberry switch may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper and more immersive typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is lauded for its easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished qualities. These switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance and a spring-like feedback sensation. Conversely, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. Users may appreciate the responsive and alive feel of the Blueberry switch, as well as its smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics, both cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Cream Yellow Pro switch provides a poppy sound and a creamy tactile feel, ideal for those seeking a vibrant auditory experience paired with smoothness. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a low-pitched, resonant sound profile, appealing to individuals looking for a more immersive and responsive typing sensation. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, either of these switches can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a smooth and creamy tactile feel, accompanied by a poppy sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump, lower than average sound frequency, and a sharp typing feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for key feel, sound, and typing experience.
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