Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Huano Grape Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Grape Orange stand out as two distinct options catering to different preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is designed for those who enjoy a tactile feedback with its pronounced bump, providing an invigorating typing experience along with a resonant sound signature that can evoke satisfaction with each keystroke. In contrast, the Grape Orange switch offers a smooth, linear feel characterized by an incredibly low actuation force of just 40g, making it ideal for users who prioritize effortless typing over tactile feedback and enjoy an ultra-light touch for extended sessions. Each switch presents unique advantages: the Creamy Purple Pro is perfect for those who relish tactile sensations and audible responses, whereas the Grape Orange caters to gamers and typists who favor a swift and frictionless experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your personal needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Grape Orange switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a similar sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. The inherent properties of polycarbonate, as a relatively stiffer plastic, facilitate a clear and resonant sound that responds well to RGB lighting due to its translucency. This shared material not only offers aesthetic advantages but also ensures that users can enjoy vibrant illumination effects properties, making both switches appealing options for enthusiasts who prioritize visual and acoustic performance in their mechanical keyboards.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches employ nylon, a classic material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, which contributes to a more rounded acoustic experience during typing. This material difference signifies that while the top housings of both switches contribute to the initial peak sounds when keys are released, the bottom housings impart a distinct depth and richness to the typing experience. Therefore, users can expect a harmonious balance of clarity from the polycarbonate top and warmth from the nylon bottom when using either of these switches.
The overall sound characteristics of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Grape Orange are fundamentally shaped by the combination of their housing materials. As both switches share the polycarbonate top housing, they will deliver similar sharper notes when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housing in both cases ensures a softer, rounder bottom-out sound. This commonality creates a harmonious blend, allowing typists to enjoy a satisfying audio feedback and tactile sensation that enhances their overall keyboard experience. Consequently, mechanical keyboard enthusiasts can confidently select either switch, knowing they will achieve a similar sound profile tailored to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, which makes it easier to press and can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Grape Orange requires a higher actuation force of 40 grams, offering a more substantial feel that some users prefer for a firmer typing experience. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that both will feel similar when fully depressed. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the suitable choice, while those who appreciate a heavier push might lean towards the Huano Grape Orange.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Grape Orange has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Akko switch offers a shallower and more responsive feel, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker actuation. In contrast, the Grape Orange, with its greater travel distance, may provide a more substantial typing experience that some users find preferable due to its depth. Thus, if you favor responsiveness and speed in your keystrokes, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the optimal choice; on the other hand, if you appreciate a more robust feel, the Grape Orange is the better option.
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 Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange 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
The sound profile of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by a loud signature, with a pitch leaning towards the bassier end of the spectrum. This results in a pronounced acoustic experience that can be satisfying and energizing during typing sessions. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange switch does not have detailed sound characteristics provided, but being a linear switch, it typically offers a quieter typing experience compared to tactile and clicky switches. Typically, linear switches produce a smooth keystroke without the audible feedback that tactile switches provide, meaning you can expect a more subdued sound overall when using the Grape Orange.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro excels with its polished finishing, which ensures a smooth and refined key travel experience, fostering quick and easy transitions between keystrokes. The tactile bump is invigorating, offering noticeable feedback that enhances the typing sensation, while being accented enough to avoid overwhelming sensations. The switch's bouncy nature gives a lively response and elastic feel, adding to the overall immersive experience. In contrast, the Grape Orange linear switch provides a light and effortless typing experience with a low actuation force of just 40g, which makes it ideal for extended typing sessions; however, specific descriptors on feel have not been provided, leaving its tactile response compared to the Creamy Purple Pro unknown.
In summary, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch delivers a loud, bassy sound and a dynamic typing experience marked by strong tactile feedback thanks to its polished and bouncy characteristics. Meanwhile, the Huano Grape Orange, while lacking specific tactile descriptors, is designed for a lighter touch and a quieter output, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer typing experience. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on whether one values pronounced tactile feedback and sound or a softer, quieter keypress for extended use.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you enjoy a prominent tactile feedback and a lively, immersive typing sensation, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch is likely your best bet. Its invigorating tactile bump and polished feel are complemented by a bassier sound signature, making it suitable for both typing and gaming where feedback is crucial. However, if you're looking for an effortless typing experience, especially during long hours of use, the Grape Orange switch is the way to go. With its ultra-low actuation force and smooth travel, you can type lightly without fatigue, making it ideal for extensive typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you—if feedback and sound are your priority, go for the Creamy Purple Pro, while if you prefer lightness and smoothness, the Grape Orange will serve you well.
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