Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX SU offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are an excellent choice for budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, providing a delightful poppy sound and a creamy tactile feel right out of the box. These switches excel in their smoothness and are described as easy-to-press, bouncy, and snappy, making them perfect for users who enjoy an engaging auditory experience alongside their typing. In contrast, the HMX SU switches, characterized by a full PA12 housing and T5 stem, deliver a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a more understated auditory feedback while typing. Both switches boast linear characteristics, making them suitable for fast-paced gaming and typing sessions; however, the choice between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize a vibrant experience or a more subdued sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that works 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
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 SU, significant differences can be observed between their top housings. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances clarity and resonance, particularly advantageous for users who prioritize a bright auditory experience, especially in RGB-lit setups. In contrast, the HMX SU features a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its softer properties that yield a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic results in a sound that is more muted and rounded, contrasting with the crisper sound of polycarbonate.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX SU are made from nylon. This uniformity in materials contributes to a consistent deep and rich sound experience when bottoming out the keys. Nylon's softer texture absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a less aggressive auditory feedback. Therefore, while the top housings create distinct auditory profiles, the bottom housings help to smooth out the overall sound experience, reflecting the classical properties of nylon found in both models.
Ultimately, the divergence in top housing materials offers users particular tonal choices while still maintaining a baseline of consistency due to the shared nylon bottom housing across both switches. If a user desires a brighter, crisper sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be the preferable choice. However, those who favor a more rounded and full typing experience might lean towards the HMX SU. Regardless of these differences, the auditory experience during the keystroke is influenced by both the materials used in the housing, ensuring that each switch has its unique charm while still delivering similar underlying acoustical results due to the common use of nylon in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which offers a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter design can be more suitable for users who prioritize longer typing sessions, as it requires less force to actuate, thereby reducing finger fatigue. While the Akko switch provides a stronger push feel, the HMX SU allows for quicker keystrokes, appealing to those who prefer a more agile typing experience. Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the heavier option, while the HMX SU is lighter.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference signifies that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter actuation distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for a faster keypress registration. On the other hand, the HMX SU’s longer travel distance could provide a more pronounced tactile feedback, catering to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to individual preference—if quick responsiveness is your priority, the Akko V3 is the better option, whereas if you appreciate a deeper feel, the HMX SU may be the way to go.
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 SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX SU linear switches, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is notable for its poppy, clacky sound that engages users who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience. This lively acoustic feedback adds to the overall enjoyment of typing and gaming, allowing it to stand out in the budget-friendly category. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a more subtle and relatively deep sound that leans towards a refined audio experience. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides an energized ambiance, the SU's sound is more understated, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. It's worth remembering that the final sound of each switch can also depend on factors like the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps, which play a crucial role in enhancing or muting the unique characteristics of each switch.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro excels with its easy-to-press, feathery, and bouncy characteristics, providing an effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. The gentle resistance during key presses coupled with a lively, springy feedback makes it comfortable for extended sessions, whether for work, gaming, or general typing. This switch's polished finish further enhances its smoothness, allowing for a sleek key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX SU linear switch is not clearly defined based on the provided information; thus, its tactile feedback and overall typing experience remain unknown.
Conclusively, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and HMX SU linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro appeals to users seeking a vibrant sound and a lively feel, specifically designed for comfort during long use. Meanwhile, the HMX SU opts for a more subdued audio profile, potentially catering to those desiring quiet functionality. As subjective qualities can vary significantly from user to user, selecting a switch ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. If you appreciate the characteristics outlined in either switch, you are likely to find satisfaction in whichever option you choose.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX SU linear switches ultimately depends on your individual preferences and typing habits. If you are looking for a switch that strikes a balance between tactile feedback and auditory enjoyment, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is an excellent choice. With its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, it provides a satisfying yet not overly demanding resistance, making it suitable for both gaming and long typing sessions. The poppy sound and creamy tactile feel cater to those who appreciate a lively auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more effortless keystroke, the HMX SU switches, with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, are likely to suit you better. These switches offer extraordinary ease of typing, ideal for extensive gaming or professional tasks, while their subtle sound profile and refined feel enhance the overall experience. Thus, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a richer auditory sensation and a moderately resistant feel or a lighter, more effortless typing experience.
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