Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, they each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly option that provides a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience and a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf offers a tactile feedback that provides a distinct feel with each keypress. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, the Maple Leaf lacks specific standout features. 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
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Maple Leaf, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. However, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro stands out with its unique polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
On the other hand, the Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, which provides a similar deep and full sound profile as the nylon bottom housing. While both switches offer a softer plastic material in their bottom housing for a more muffled sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate top housing delivers a more distinct and vibrant sound experience. This difference highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound profile and tactile feel of a switch. Ultimately, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Outemu Maple Leaf demonstrate the importance of housing materials in achieving specific sound characteristics.
By having different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switch, both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Maple Leaf split the qualities each material brings to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division of sound characteristics showcases how the choice of housing materials can create a unique typing experience with varying levels of sound sharpness and resonance. Whether using polycarbonate or nylon, both switches offer a distinct sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the Akko V3 has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Maple Leaf has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Akko V3 requiring 60 grams and the Maple Leaf needing 65 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Akko V3 makes it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the Maple Leaf provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the lighter option, while the Outemu Maple Leaf is slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent keypress experience in terms of travel distance, resulting in similar key actuation feelings for users. Whether you choose the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the Maple Leaf, you can expect to have a uniform travel distance when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a smooth and precise keypress, making them ideal choices for those who prioritize a consistent 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 Maple Leaf 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 is known for its poppy, clacky sound that offers a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Maple Leaf switch is unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a smooth and satisfying tactile experience, with descriptors such as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Maple Leaf switch is not specified. If the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides similar qualities in terms of feel, users can expect a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is a budget-friendly option that delivers a satisfying auditory experience and a smooth tactile feel. While the sound profile of the Maple Leaf switch is unknown, if it offers similar qualities to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a satisfying combination of sound and smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom out force of 60 grams offers a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and value tactile feedback, the Outemu Maple leaf switch could be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and budget constraints. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so carefully consider what aspects are most important to you when selecting your ideal mechanical keyboard switch.
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