Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX EMO present two distinct yet appealing options for different typing preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its pronounced tactile bump and a robust sound profile that leans towards a bassier tone, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more audio-centric feedback and a tactile typing experience. In contrast, the HMX EMO switch offers a linear experience characterized by its lively, clacky feel and a feather-light bottom-out force of just 46g, designed for users who crave a smooth and effortless keystroke without the interruption of tactile feedback. While the Creamy Purple Pro may suit typists who appreciate tactile cues and sound, the EMO caters to those seeking a fast and bouncy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX EMO both feature polycarbonate top housings, leading to similar sonic characteristics in their upper parts. The choice of polycarbonate is significant, as this material is known for its rigidity, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches will produce a crisp auditory experience when a key is pressed and released, particularly advantageous for users who desire an accentuated sound when utilizing RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches but also helps in diffusing the RGB lighting for a vibrant visual effect.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX EMO utilize nylon, a material revered for its sound-absorbing qualities. The nylon housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, subtly balancing the overall acoustic experience while maintaining a rounded tonal character. As the bottom housing plays a crucial role in defining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, both models will deliver a pleasant and more muted response upon key presses, reinforcing the overall typing experience with a softer touch.
Ultimately, the synergy between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and HMX EMO results in an outstanding typing experience characterized by a blend of clarity and depth. The crispness of the polycarbonate interacts with the warmth of the nylon to create a well-rounded overall sound profile, making both switches appealing to a wide range of users. Whether you're looking for a vibrant RGB aesthetic or a satisfying acoustic feedback while typing, both switches promise to deliver an exceptional experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, notable differences arise in both the actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the EMO's 40 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out force of the V3 is slightly higher at 50 grams versus the EMO's 46 grams, which means that while the EMO requires more force to initially actuate, it bottoms out more gently than the V3. Consequently, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is lighter overall, appealing to those who seek a comfortable and less strenuous typing experience, whereas the HMX EMO, with its heavier actuation force, may appeal to users who favor a more substantial keystroke feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, whereas the HMX EMO has a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the V3 switch offers a shallower travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the HMX EMO’s greater travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel with each keystroke, providing a deeper typing experience. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the preferable choice, while those who appreciate a more pronounced depth might lean towards the HMX EMO.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by its loud, bass-heavy audio profile, which creates a pronounced acoustic presence during typing. This switch will resonate with those who enjoy a more robust auditory feedback while engaging with their keyboard. In contrast, the HMX EMO linear switch produces a lively, clacky sound that adds a playful element to each keystroke, making it distinctly different in its tonal quality. Both switches, however, will have their sound affected by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, meaning users can achieve a variety of acoustic experiences depending on their setup.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro provides a noticeable tactile bump that enhances the typing experience, making every keystroke feel deliberate and engaged. This tactile feedback is ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional typing sensation. Meanwhile, the HMX EMO offers a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, resulting in an effortless and bouncy typing experience. Exceptionally factory-lubed, this switch allows for smooth keystrokes that almost feel like gliding across the board, catering well to those who prefer a silky typing surface without the extra resistance.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and HMX EMO linear switches cater to different preferences, with the former emphasizing a tactile feedback and a loud sound signature, while the latter provides a smooth, clacky feel with a lighter actuation force. Each switch offers a unique experience, so your choice should depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or prefer a lighter, more gliding touch. Ultimately, both switches can create satisfying typing experiences, but aligning them with your personal preferences will lead to the best results.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, your choice should depend on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. Opt for the V3 Creamy Purple Pro if you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback and an audible sound with a more bass-heavy tone that can amplify your typing experience, making it particularly satisfying for those who appreciate a more traditional mechanical keyboard feel. This switch is ideal for users who prefer the sensation of a reassuring tactile bump with each keypress, which can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction, especially for writing or coding tasks. Conversely, if you are after a smooth, light touch with minimal resistance, the HMX EMO switch may be your best bet. Its effortlessly bouncy typing experience and factory lubrication provide an exceptionally smooth feel, making it perfect for rapid typing and gaming scenarios where quick key presses are essential. In summary, choose the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for a tactile, feedback-oriented experience, while the EMO is better suited for those who prioritize a smooth, linear feel with a lighter actuation force.
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