Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing various options to achieve their desired typing experience. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches stand out as an excellent choice for those who appreciate a lively auditory experience, offering a blend of poppy sounds and creamy tactile feedback, complemented by characteristics like bounciness and snappiness. In contrast, the HMX Poro switches focus on providing an ultra-smooth keystroke experience, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that guarantees effortless gliding. While both switches share a linear design and deliver a satisfying poppy sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro leans toward a more vibrant and textured feel, whereas the HMX Poro prioritizes fluidity and ease of use. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, but 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Poro, we find a striking contrast in their top housing compositions. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffness not only enhances resonance but also makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the Poro employs a nylon top housing that encapsulates the classic properties of softness, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The absorption capabilities of nylon contribute to a duller and rounder auditory experience, showcasing how different materials can significantly influence the acoustic character of a switch.
However, the bottom housing of both switches is made of nylon, which underscores a shared material trait that brings a consistent experience in terms of sound depth. Both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Poro benefit from the softer nature of nylon in their bottom housings, leading to a sound that is notably deeper and fuller. The resonating qualities of the nylon enhance the bottom-out sound, allowing for a more subdued acoustic response when the key is pressed. Consequently, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's top housing contributes to a brighter sound upon key release, the shared nylon bottom housing provides a grounding balance, creating a cohesive typing experience across both switches.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials—polycarbonate for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and nylon for the Poro—result in complementary sound profiles that serve various preferences. Users looking for a crisp, bright sound from the V3 Cream Yellow Pro will appreciate the polycarbonate's impact, while those preferring a softer, fuller auditory experience might lean towards the Poro. Despite their different top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a richness in sound, allowing for a satisfying typing experience regardless of the variation in top material. Whether opting for the bright clarity of the V3 or the warmth of the Poro, users will appreciate the unique characteristics that each choice imparts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a moderate actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience ideal for those who enjoy a heavier push feel. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suited for users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a firmer, more tactile feedback, while the Poro allows for quicker keystrokes with less effort. Ultimately, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the heavier option, whereas the HMX Poro is the lighter of the two, appealing to different user preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the HMX Poro linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference means that users of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro can expect a more responsive experience, ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation. Conversely, the HMX Poro's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel, which some users might prefer for a richer typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize swift response times, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the better choice, while those who enjoy a deeper keystroke might gravitate towards the HMX Poro.
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 HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is characterized by a poppy and clacky quality, which adds an energetic auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable, especially for typing and gaming. This vibrancy can create an engaging atmosphere, making every keystroke feel rewarding. On the other hand, the HMX Poro also boasts a similarly poppy and clacky sound, primarily due to its ultra-light actuation force. While both switches deliver a stimulating auditory experience, the full extent of their sound characteristics may vary based on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, so users might experience subtle differences depending on their specific setup.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a remarkable typing experience that can be described as easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes the switch ideal for prolonged typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue while ensuring a responsive and lively interaction. The switch's bouncy and snappy characteristics provide an elastic feedback sensation, enhancing the overall engagement during use. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is noted for its silky smooth keystrokes, which further emphasizes effortless keypresses. Although specific descriptors for the Poro may not be provided, the meticulous lubrication suggests a refined and smooth experience, potentially similar to the polished feel of the Akko switch.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and HMX Poro linear switches provide a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, marked by their poppy and clacky sound and their responsiveness during typing. The Cream Yellow Pro excels in its bouncy, easy-to-press attributes, while the Poro emphasizes a smooth glide that caters to an effortless keystroke. Ultimately, users can choose either switch based on their personal preferences for sound and feel, as both options promise high-quality performance suited for a variety of typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you enjoy a medium actuation force that offers a satisfying tactile experience with a poppy, clacky sound profile, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro will likely suit your needs well. These switches provide a bouncy and polished feel, making them ideal for both typing and gaming without causing finger fatigue, even during extended sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch for effortless keystrokes and a silky smooth glide, the HMX Poro might be your better option. With their ultra-light actuation force and meticulously lubricated components, these switches deliver a feathery, responsive feel that is perfect for reactive gaming or comfortable daily typing. Ultimately, assess how you prioritize sound and feel based on your personal usage; both switches offer excellent attributes tailored to distinct typing experiences.
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