Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch you select can significantly impact your typing experience and overall enjoyment. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is a tactile switch renowned for its pronounced tactile bump and bassy sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who crave feedback with each keystroke. Its loud acoustics can add a satisfying character to typing, particularly for users who appreciate the auditory aspect of mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch, categorized as a linear switch, offers a different experience altogether, focusing on a smooth and effortless typing feel. With a medium-light actuation force, the Gravel allows for quick, responsive keystrokes that cater to fast typists who prefer a quieter experience without the tactile feedback. Each switch appeals to different preferences: the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for its tactile and auditory feedback, while the HMX Gravel excels in smoothness and responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Gravel both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, leading to notable similarities in their sound profiles. This specific material is known for its rigidity, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper acoustic output. Moreover, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them suitable for setups with RGB lighting. This alignment in material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound experience characterized by clarity and resonance regardless of which switch they choose, particularly in terms of the sound emitted when the key is released.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Gravel are made from nylon, which distinctly alters the overall acoustic profile of the switches. Nylon is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This characteristic imparts a rounded and mellow bottom-out sound, enhancing typing experience and adding a layer of sophistication to the lower frequencies. The combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing in both models provides a balanced acoustic profile that merges the crispness of the top with the fullness of the bottom.
The dual-material design of both switches also highlights the unique contributions of each housing to the overall performance. While the top polycarbonate housing shines when keys are released, creating a bright and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out feels and sounds. This means that even if there are differences in aesthetics or branding between the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Gravel, they will ultimately deliver a similar auditory experience to users due to the shared materials. Thus, whether users lean towards one model or another, they can enjoy comparable tactile feedback and sonic qualities.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, even though both share the same bottom out force of 50 grams. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it easier to press, which can be advantageous for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that may appeal to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Although both switches bottom out at the same weight, the difference in their actuation forces may influence the overall typing comfort, with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro being the lighter option and better suited for prolonged use, while the Gravel offers a stronger resistance that some users might find satisfying.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their travel distances, measuring 3 mm and 3.5 mm, respectively. This makes the V3 Creamy Purple Pro the shorter of the two switches, while the HMX Gravel provides a longer travel experience. If you're looking for quicker response times, the shorter 3 mm travel distance of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro might be more appealing, particularly for gamers seeking rapid key presses. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Gravel switch may offer a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a deeper press, fostering a sense of tactile feedback that can be more enjoyable for typing or gaming. Thus, the choice between these switches ultimately hinges on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
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 Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel 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
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch produces a notably loud sound signature, characterized by a deeper, bassier pitch. This can create a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing, which some users find satisfying and immersive, especially in a quiet environment or for those who enjoy the acoustic experience of mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switch is engineered for a smoother sound profile, though the specific characteristics of its acoustics are not provided. Typically, linear switches like the Gravel are known for a quieter operation, so it’s likely that this switch produces less prominent sound compared to the Creamy Purple Pro, making it a good option for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a distinct and invigorating tactile bump, providing a clear indication of actuation that many typists appreciate for enhanced feedback. This tactile sensation is accompanied by a heavier overall feel, allowing users to recognize their actions with confidence. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch offers a medium-light actuation force that leans towards a lighter touch, catering to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. The smoothness of the Gravel is highlighted as a key feature, making each keystroke feel seamless and refined, which might be more suitable for rapid typing or gaming sessions.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and HMX Gravel switches cater to different user preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its loud, bassy sound and tactile feedback, ideal for those who enjoy an engaging auditory experience, while the Gravel emphasizes smoothness and a lighter actuation force for a responsive and effortless feel. If you’re looking for sound and tactile feedback, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro might be your go-to, whereas the Gravel is likely the better choice for a silent, smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your personal preference in sound and feel will determine which switch aligns best with your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are someone who enjoys a noticeable tactile feedback with each keystroke, along with a satisfying and pronounced sound, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be your best bet. This switch provides a distinctive tactile bump that can enhance your typing experience, particularly for those who appreciate audible feedback, such as gamers or typists who like to feel each key press while enjoying a more bass-heavy sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the HMX Gravel linear switch excels in that regard. With its seamless, refined feel and medium-light actuation, it offers a responsive experience well-suited for fast typing and gaming without the distraction of a loud click. Overall, if you prioritize tactile feedback and sound, go for the V3 Creamy Purple Pro; but if you desire smoothness and a subtle typing experience, the HMX Gravel switch is likely the better choice for you.
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