Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Blue mechanical keyboard switches, there are some notable differences to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is popular among budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts for its satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel. It is ideal for those who prefer a vibrant auditory experience and creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is a clicky switch that offers a different typing experience. While the Blue switch may not have a standout feature like the Cream Yellow Pro, it is still a solid choice for those who enjoy a more traditional clicky typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Blue switches, both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects. However, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Blue switch's all-polycarbonate construction. The nylon material's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
The distinction in housing materials between the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Blue switches leads to differences in sound and feel when typing. With the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's split housing design, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing contribute to the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches affects the sound when releasing a key, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast showcases how the combination of different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Blue switches incorporate polycarbonate for their top housing, the addition of nylon in the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's bottom housing sets it apart in sound profile and typing experience. The use of nylon in the V3 Cream Yellow Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Blue switch's all-polycarbonate construction may result in a more resonant and crisp sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offering a unique combination of housing materials for a distinct typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a lighter option with its actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch has the same actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a more consistent typing experience with its medium actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those looking for a balanced feel. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch may provide a more tactile typing experience due to its clicky nature, but without information on the bottom out force, it is difficult to determine how it compares in terms of overall weight. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while those who enjoy a heavier typing experience may opt for the Outemu Blue clicky switch, assuming it has a heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who require fast reflexes. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch provides a deeper keystroke feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize speed or key depth in your 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 Blue comes in at $3.10 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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch provides a poppy, clacky sound that adds a vibrant auditory experience to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch offers a distinct clicking sound that some users may find satisfying. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a smooth and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is unknown, but clicky switches typically offer a tactile bump during key presses, providing feedback to the user.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer different sound profiles and potentially different feels, catering to a variety of preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, whether you prefer a poppy and clacky sound or a distinct clicking sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a satisfying auditory experience with a creamy tactile feel, then the Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 switches are an excellent choice. They offer a pleasant combination of sound and smoothness, making typing an enjoyable experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a different feel and sound profile, the Outemu Blue switches might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches have their unique characteristics, and choosing between them will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.
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