Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are key differences to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a popular choice among budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts for its satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, providing a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are favored for their bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray have some similarities and differences. Both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. However, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro with its nylon bottom housing is likely to have a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Polaris Gray with its polycarbonate bottom housing, which may produce a sharper and crisper sound. The impact of the different housing materials is also felt when typing, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The top housing, on the other hand, has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both keyboards share the benefit of using polycarbonate in the top housing for improved sound clarity and resonance, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray differ in their bottom housing materials, they both feature polycarbonate top housings that enhance sound quality and visual aesthetics. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the feel of key presses and the sound of bottoming out, while the top housing influences the sound of releasing keys. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound from nylon or a sharper, crisper sound from polycarbonate, both keyboards offer a high-quality typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance level. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Gray may cater to individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a unique feel based on their respective force requirements, allowing users to choose based on their preferred typing style and comfort level.
Travel distance
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Polaris Gray has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed and precision. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray offers a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those looking for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches offer a poppy and clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches are described as having a clean and clacky sound profile with a low-pitched tone, making them more bass-heavy and mellow compared to the Akko switches. Both switches provide a satisfying sound experience, but the Cream Yellow Pro switches may offer a more vibrant and lively sound compared to the Polaris Gray switches.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are noted for their easy-to-press and feathery feel, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force, which can reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. These switches also provide a bouncy and snappy typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer a mild typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel, making them suitable for most users who prefer a safe middle-ground feel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Cream Yellow Pro switches may offer a more responsive and lively feel compared to the Polaris Gray switches.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches are best suited for enthusiasts who enjoy a poppy, clacky sound paired with an easy-to-press and feathery feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches are ideal for those who prefer a clean and clacky sound with a low-pitched tone and a mild typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer satisfying sound and feel qualities, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their preferences. If you enjoy one of these switches, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when using the other.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch would be more suitable. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers an easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the Polaris Gray provides a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for sound and feel in order to enhance your typing experience.
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