Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Bsun Tomcat stand out as two compelling options for gaming and typing enthusiasts alike, both classified as linear switches. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is celebrated for its budget-friendly design combined with a delightful auditory experience, offering a poppy and clacky sound paired with smooth and bouncy keystrokes. Its "easy-to-press" feel makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat prioritizes a silky-smooth typing sensation thanks to its unique Ly stems. Users often praise its resonant sound profile, making it appealing for those who value a more subdued auditory backdrop while typing. While both switches share a linear classification and cater to different preferences, their unique characteristics make them suited for various types of users. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Bsun Tomcat exhibit a striking similarity, particularly in the choice of polycarbonate for their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which is known for its stiff properties that contribute to producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This choice enhances the sound clarity when typing, as the rigidity of the material allows for a more resonant and defined auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate serves a dual purpose: not only does it permit RGB lighting effects to shine through, enriching the aesthetic appeal of the switches, but it also reinforces the overall brightness of the sound produced when the keys are actuated and released.
When we look at the bottom housing materials of both switches, they further align with the use of nylon for enhanced auditory performance. Nylon is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which effectively absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. This characteristic leads to a rounder and more muted sound when the key reaches its bottom-out point. The synergy between the bottom nylon housing and the top polycarbonate housing creates a well-rounded auditory experience, where the nylon moderates the sharper sounds from the polycarbonate, allowing for a harmonious balance that enhances the overall quality of typing.
In terms of performance, the similarities in housing materials between the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Bsun Tomcat suggest that users can expect comparable sound profiles and typing experiences from these switches. While the top and bottom housings bring distinct qualities to the overall sound—where the polycarbonate tends to dominate upon release and the nylon influences the bottom-out sound—together, they create a unified auditory output. Therefore, regardless of the individual switch brand, the use of these materials ensures that users will enjoy a blend of clarity and warmth, making both switches appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking specific auditory traits.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This means that the Tomcat switch is easier to press down compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, making it a preferable choice for users seeking a lighter typing experience suited for long hours of use or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier forces of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial push feel while typing, providing a tactile satisfaction that some users prefer. Thus, while both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the heavier option, whereas the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is lighter.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Tomcat measures 3.6 mm. This makes the V3 Cream Yellow Pro the shorter option, providing a quicker response time that is ideal for gamers who favor rapid keystrokes. In contrast, the Tomcat's travel distance of 3.6 mm offers a more substantial depth, which might be more appealing to users who enjoy a satisfying tactile feel with their key presses. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be the better choice, whereas the Bsun Tomcat would suit those who prefer a deeper, more pronounced keystroke 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 Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99 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 switch delivers a poppy, clacky auditory experience, characterized by a vibrant resonance that makes typing feel lively. This combination of sounds creates an engaging environment for users who enjoy a more dynamic acoustic feedback from their keyboards. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch features a resonant sound profile, though the specific qualities of this sound are less detailed. It can be inferred that the Tomcat produces a different auditory experience, but as always, the sound can vary significantly depending on the keyboard build, switch mounting, and keycap materials used.
When considering the feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are designed to excel in providing a light, comfortable typing experience. They embody descriptors such as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These characteristics come together to create a responsive and fatigue-reducing typing feel, making them particularly appealing for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the specifications for the feel of the Tomcat switch are not provided, leaving its tactile experience uncharted in this comparison. Thus, the Akko switch stands out clearly with a comprehensive understanding of its tactile qualities.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is a vibrant and dynamic choice characterized by its poppy sound and a smooth, comfortable feel, making it a suitable option for users who prioritize these qualities. The Bsun Tomcat linear switch, while offering a resonant sound profile, lacks detailed information regarding its tactile experience, leaving potential users without a clear grasp of its performance. Ultimately, if a user prefers a sound-rich typing experience, they would likely enjoy the lively nature of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while the Tomcat's acoustic profile could be a wildcard dependent on the rest of the keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a switch that provides a more pronounced auditory feedback along with a tactile, creamy feel, then the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a solid option. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams strikes a balance that suits both casual and intense typing sessions, making it ideal for gamers and typists who enjoy a lively keystroke experience. On the other hand, if you're searching for a super smooth, lightweight typing experience, the Tomcat, with its lower 54-gram bottom-out force, could be the switch you want. Its design emphasizes smoothness and sound resonance, making it a great choice if you type often for long periods or appreciate a quieter keystroke. In essence, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or a smoother, effortless typing experience; both switches have their merits and can cater to different styles and comfort needs.
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