Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Red Panda offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its budget-friendly price point, satisfying poppy sound, and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch that provides a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassy bottom-out sound and a clacky top-out sound. While the Cream Yellow Pro appeals to those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience and smooth typing feel, the Red Panda caters to individuals who prefer a tactile feedback with a distinct 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Red Panda feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housings, they may still offer slightly different sound profiles based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing material, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Outemu Red Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar sound experience to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings can enhance the overall typing experience by offering a more tactile and audibly satisfying feel.
While both switches have different bottom housing materials, the impact of these materials on sound and feel is significant. The qualities of the bottom housing will primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even though the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Red Panda share similarities in their housing materials, the overall typing experience may vary slightly based on the combination of materials used in each switch.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch both have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in terms of weight. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke and bottom out while typing or gaming. For those who prefer a lighter feel, these switches provide a comfortable typing experience that allows for longer periods of use without fatigue. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find the medium actuation and bottom out force of these switches satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be noted that they both offer a similar keypress feel and actuation point, despite coming from different manufacturers. The travel distance of these switches allows for a comfortable typing experience, providing a satisfying amount of feedback while typing. Overall, whether you choose the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the Outemu Red Panda, you can expect a consistent travel distance that enhances your 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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 with a decent smoothness, providing a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch produces a thocky sound with a deep, rich, and satisfying tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, catering to different preferences based on individual tastes and the overall keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch provides an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. These qualities enhance the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Conversely, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a mild tactile experience, striking a balance between comfort and tactile feedback. The Red Panda's qualities cater to those looking for a gentler typing sensation without sacrificing overall typing performance.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow Pro delivers a more poppy sound and a smoother, bouncier feel, the Red Panda provides a thocky sound and a milder tactile experience. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two switches. If you prefer a more vibrant auditory experience and a creamy tactile feel, the Cream Yellow Pro may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you lean towards a deep, rich sound with a gentler tactile response, the Red Panda could be the better option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are on a budget and enjoy a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility alongside a bassier bottom-out sound, the Red Panda might be the better option. Additionally, if you prioritize switches with easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished qualities, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro could be more suitable for your typing preferences. However, if you prefer a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, the Red Panda would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in sound, feel, and budget requirements.
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