Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately differentiate between the linear and tactile functionalities. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch, known for its budget-friendly price point and offering a 'poppy, clacky sound' combined with a smooth tactile feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch, providing a different typing experience with a more pronounced bump and feedback. While the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is ideal for those seeking a vibrant auditory experience and smooth keystrokes, the Outemu Ocean caters to individuals who prefer a more tactile response. 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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Ocean feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that are intended to produce a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visual appeal to the overall keyboard setup. This shared material ensures that users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from both switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes nylon, while the Outemu Ocean also incorporates nylon in its construction. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as its relatively softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience than the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches share this nylon bottom housing, offering users a consistent typing experience that emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound quality.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with the overall switch performance, it becomes clear that each material brings distinctive qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, affecting the overall tactile response and feedback. In contrast, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when a key is released, influencing the overall auditory experience of the switch. By understanding the role of each housing material, users can appreciate the nuanced differences in sound and feel between switches like the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Ocean.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Ocean has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro also has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is not available for the Ocean switch. This makes the V3 Cream Yellow Pro a better option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ocean switch may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide different weight options for users to choose from, allowing them to select the one that best suits their preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Ocean has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Ocean may provide a more substantial key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the desired key feel.
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 Ocean 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 best known for its unique combination of a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, The Ocean switch's sound characteristics remain unknown, making it difficult to compare to the Cream Yellow Pro. It's essential to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's build quality and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is renowned for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a comfortable and low-impact typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Alternatively, the tactile qualities of the Ocean switch aren't specified, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison to the Cream Yellow Pro's smooth and responsive feel.
Taking all available information into account, it's evident that the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has established itself as a budget-friendly favorite among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts due to its satisfying sound profile and effortless typing experience. While the Outemu Ocean tactile switch lacks specific details for a direct comparison, it's safe to say that opting for either switch would provide a similar level of quality and performance depending on one's personal preference for sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them viable options for customizing your mechanical keyboard to suit your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium bottom out force and a satisfying combination of sound and smoothness, the Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 switch is a great choice. It provides a poppy, clacky sound and an easy-to-press, feathery feel that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a switch with no specified bottom out force and unique tactile characteristics, the Outemu Ocean switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and budget constraints. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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