Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Swift both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is praised for its budget-friendly option that provides a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth tactile feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics; 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
42g
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
3.90 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 extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Swift, we see that both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. This similarity means that users can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch. However, the differences in their top housing materials set them apart - the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes polycarbonate, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Swift's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro sets it apart from the Swift, which utilizes nylon for its top housing. Polycarbonate's stiffness results in a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches that prioritize a sharper sound. In contrast, the Swift's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This distinction highlights how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and typing experience of a switch.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Swift play a crucial role. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials showcases how intricacies in switch design can affect the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX Swift linear switch. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 60 grams for bottoming out, while the Swift only needs 42 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out. This means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier feel, while the Swift offers a lighter touch for those who prefer it. Both switches have their benefits, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro being better suited for users who prefer a bit more resistance, and the Swift being ideal for those who enjoy a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making the Swift switch the longer option. In terms of comparison, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Swift switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial and deliberate key press may opt for the Swift switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing or gaming 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches are characterized by a poppy and clacky sound that adds vibrancy to the typing experience, while the HMX Swift linear switches offer a deeper sound profile due to their full nylon housings. The Akko switches provide a more crisp and bright sound, while the Swift switches deliver a smoother and silkier auditory feedback. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Akko being more poppy and clacky, and the Swift being deeper and smoother.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Swift linear switches are described as easy-to-press and feathery, providing a light and effortless typing experience. The Akko switches also offer a bouncy and snappy typing feel, enhancing the responsiveness and liveliness of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Swift switches are noted for their creamy sensation, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding across the keys. Both switches offer a low-impact and comfortable typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches and the HMX Swift linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akko switches provide a more vibrant auditory experience with their poppy and clacky sound, paired with a bouncy and easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the Swift switches offer a deeper sound profile and a creamy typing sensation, making typing feel smoother and more luxurious. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the more lively and vibrant Akko switches or the smoother and buttery Swift switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a poppy, clacky sound and a decent smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile with a silky smooth feel and a lighter actuation force, the HMX Swift linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Consider what qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch and make your decision based on that. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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