Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, a linear switch, and the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, it is important to consider the unique characteristics of each. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are a popular choice among budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts due to their poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel. These switches are easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a vivid auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch does not have a standout feature but is known for its tactile feedback. While the Cream Yellow Pro offers a unique auditory experience, the Crystal Brown focuses more on physical feedback. Each switch has its own advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to dive deeper into specifics to choose the best option for your preferences and needs.
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
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
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal choice for switches designed for customizable lighting effects.
In contrast, both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that can enhance the typing experience. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to the overall acoustics of the switch, making typing on these switches more satisfying for users looking for a quieter and more tactile sound.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, they each play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater effect on the sound when releasing a key. By combining polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer a unique typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are some notable differences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 45 grams, making it a bit more resistant to accidental keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires 60 grams, which is heavier than the Crystal Brown's 55 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. 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, making it shorter than the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize fast inputs. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more immersive typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing preferences.
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 Crystal Brown 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 is known for its poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as offering an easy-to-press sensation with gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable. The feathery and bouncy qualities of this switch contribute to a responsive and low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch remains unknown, making it challenging to compare directly.
Considering the available information, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch seems to be a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option with a satisfying sound profile and smooth tactile feel. While the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are unknown, opting for this switch may yield similar results to the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, personal preference and experimentation are key when selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a satisfying poppy sound and smooth feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter actuation force and a tactile typing experience without additional sound features, the Crystal Brown may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Make sure to try out different options if possible to find the perfect fit for your typing needs.
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