Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Silent Grey mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that offers a poppy sound and smooth keystrokes, perfect for budget-conscious enthusiasts looking for a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey is a tactile switch that provides a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump, ideal for those seeking something satisfying yet silent. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Silent Grey feature polycarbonate top housings, showcasing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches that aim for a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the utilization of RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when using either option.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Silent Grey utilize nylon, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that can be satisfying to users looking for a quieter typing experience. By incorporating nylon into their bottom housings, both switches prioritize sound quality and seek to provide users with a tactile typing experience that is both comfortable and sonically appealing.
When considering the impact of housing materials on overall switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Thus, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Silent Grey allows for a balanced typing experience that excels in both sound quality and tactile feedback, catering to the preferences of a wide range of users.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have similar actuation forces of 50 grams, meaning they both require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is lighter at 60 grams, while the Silent Grey is heavier at 65 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall compared to the Silent Grey. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the V3 Cream Yellow Pro more appealing for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Grey offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Silent Grey has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's shorter distance may be preferable for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Grey's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for travel distance and 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 Silent Grey 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 offers a poppy, clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is known for being quiet, perfect for those who prefer a silent typing experience. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press, offering a smooth typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. This switch type is described as feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a low-impact and responsive typing feel that is comfortable for extended use. On the contrary, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, delivering a highly tactile typing experience. Specific details on the feel of the Silent Grey switch are not provided, but it is clear that it offers a satisfying tactile feedback.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch caters to individuals who enjoy a poppy sound accompanied by a smooth keystroke, making it a great choice for those who desire a vibrant auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is ideal for users who seek a quiet and highly tactile typing experience. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and selecting between them would depend on whether one prioritizes sound, feel, or a combination of both. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfactory typing experience with either switch, as both offer distinct characteristics that enhance the overall feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a poppy sound and smooth feel, the Cream Yellow Pro V3 is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, the Silent Grey switch is perfect for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and smoothness or silence and tactility in your mechanical keyboard switches. Both switches have their distinct characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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