Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, there are different characteristics that stand out for each. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is popular among budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts for its satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience and creamy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch does not have a specific standout feature but is known for its clicky sound. 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
65g
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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Purple both feature polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches with clear housing, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. In terms of sound profile, both switches will likely deliver a similar result due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities of a deeper sound profile, but split between the top and bottom of the switch. This split can affect the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon releasing a key.
Overall, both switches offer unique combinations of housing materials that cater to different sound preferences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro delivers a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate in the top housing and a deeper tone with nylon in the bottom housing. In comparison, the Outemu Dustproof Purple offers a similar crisp sound from its polycarbonate top housing but combines it with a rounder sound profile from the nylon bottom housing. Depending on personal preference for sound, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the lighter option. With an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple offers a slightly heavier typing experience with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a decent balance between typing comfort and feedback. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter touch of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier feel of the Dustproof Purple for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to individual typing habits and preferences.
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 Dustproof Purple clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Dustproof Purple offers a more traditional depth compared to the Cream Yellow Pro, which falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers may prefer the Cream Yellow Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Dustproof Purple. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 Purple 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 switches provide a poppy, clacky sound that adds a satisfying auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches have a clicky sound profile, which offers a more pronounced click with each key press. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and usage.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are known for their easy-to-press nature, providing a gentle resistance during key presses that require minimal force to activate. This results in a smooth and responsive typing experience, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Dustproof Purple switches lack specific information on their feel characteristics, but clicky switches generally offer a tactile bump during actuation, providing a satisfying feedback to each key press.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switches offer unique sound and feel experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow Pro switches provide a smooth and tactile typing experience with a poppy sound, ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switches offer a satisfying clicky sound with a tactile bump, enhancing the typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced key feedback. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider your preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a satisfying combination of a poppy sound and smooth feel, the Cream Yellow Pro V3 switches are a great choice. These switches offer an easy-to-press, feathery feel that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not concerned about sound, the Dustproof Purple switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize sound, feel, budget, or specific key attributes in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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