Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Black mechanical keyboard switches, there are notable differences to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its budget-friendly option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Known for its poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel, this switch offers a vibrant auditory experience coupled with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black is also a linear switch but lacks specific standout features. While the Cream Yellow Pro is easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, the Dustproof Black does not have any distinct characteristics highlighted. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, it is important to dive deeper beyond generalities to determine which switch best suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Black, it is clear that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This means that both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the differences lie in the bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro.
While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the differences in their nylon bottom housings become apparent when considering the impact on typing experience. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. These differences showcase how the choice of housing materials can affect the sound and feel of a switch, emphasizing the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials in switch design.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Black both feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, their use of nylon bottom housings brings distinct characteristics to their typing experience. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing offers similar qualities. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall performance of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, the actuation force of the Cream Yellow Pro is lighter at 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Black's 60 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Cream Yellow Pro is lighter at 60 grams compared to the Dustproof Black's heavier 80 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow Pro provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Dustproof Black switch offers a more substantial and heavy typing feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences – lighter for longer typing sessions and heavier for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has the shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dustproof Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is better suited for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers who require swift key presses. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black provides a deeper key press, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more robust typing experience. Both options offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to individual preference for travel distance and the desired 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 Dustproof Black 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 V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch provides a satisfying combination of a poppy and clacky sound, delivering a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound quality of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is unknown, but it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a smooth and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, enhancing the overall typing experience with lively feedback and smooth key travel. The feel of the Dustproof Black switch is unknown, so it's difficult to compare the two in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch stands out for its distinctive sound profile, easy-to-press feel, and additional characteristics like featheriness and snappiness that enhance the typing experience. While information about the Outemu Dustproof Black switch is limited, it is important to consider individual preferences and intended use when choosing between these switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results if a user is seeking a linear switch with specific sound and feel qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider the bottom out force and the specific characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a poppy, clacky sound with a creamy tactile feel, then the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and prioritize features such as dustproofing, you may want to opt for the Outemu Dustproof Black switch. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force. Both switches offer unique qualities, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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