Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is well-regarded for its pronounced tactile bump, which provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more engaging and audible typing experience. Its loud sound signature, leaning towards the bassier side, enhances the overall tactile sensation, making it particularly appealing for users who value both feedback and auditory gratification. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and delivers a bright, resonant sound that promotes an exceptionally bouncy and smooth keystroke feel. This switch is perfect for gamers and typists who prefer a fluid typing experience without the tactile interruption, allowing for quick and uninterrupted motions. While both switches present unique advantages—one focusing on tactile feedback and sound, and the other on smoothness and weight—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), it becomes evident that the differences lie primarily in the top housing. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer composition, which provides clarity and resonance to the sound output. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a nylon top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller audio experience. Therefore, while the V3's polycarbonate construction enhances brightness and clarity, the Lotus's nylon housing promotes a warmer and more rounded sound.
On the other hand, both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This consistency means that both switches will produce a similar sound signature when bottoming out, since nylon's characteristics lead to a muffled sound profile that feels deeper and fuller beneath the fingers. Given that both models incorporate nylon for the bottom housing, typists will experience comparable tactile feedback and acoustics during the act of pressing down the key. This similarity ensures that typists seeking a satisfying bottom-out feel will find both switches effective in that regard.
In conclusion, the contrasting top housing materials of the two switches impart different auditory qualities to their overall performance, while the shared nylon bottom housing provides a consistent foundation. If a user favors a sharper and more resonant sound profile, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the preferred choice, whereas those inclined towards a fuller, warmer sound might gravitate toward the HMX Lotus (Heavy). Nevertheless, the comparable bottom-end performance stems from the commonality of the nylon used, ensuring that both switches deliver a unified typing experience at the base level.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, a notable difference emerges in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who appreciate a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch has a considerably heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Consequently, the Akko switch is lighter, which could be more comfortable for prolonged use, while the HMX Lotus is heavier, providing a firmer feel that some typists or gamers might prefer. This clear distinction in force characteristics suggests that users should select based on their individual preferences for typing feel and comfort during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there is a notable difference. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Lotus (Heavy) features a greater travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in distance may impact user experience, particularly for those who prioritize responsiveness, as the shorter travel distance of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro can lead to quicker actuation and potentially faster response times, which is often preferred by gamers. Conversely, the longer 3.5 mm travel of the Lotus (Heavy) may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, providing a richer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding depth and responsiveness.
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 Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) 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 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch is characterized by a loud sound signature that leans towards a bassier pitch, making it sonorous and satisfying with each keystroke. The tactile bump enhances the overall auditory experience, providing an invigorating feedback that many users find pleasant. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch produces a bright, resonant sound, which gives it a distinct auditory presence that many typists appreciate. While both switches offer relatively strong sound profiles, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is louder and deeper in tone, while the Lotus (Heavy) offers a more high-pitched, bubbly sound.
When focusing on feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro excels with its pronounced tactile bump that provides a clear feedback at the actuation point, making it ideal for users who enjoy a tactile response in their typing experience. This switch delivers a satisfying sensation that helps typists maintain accuracy and rhythm. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is designed with a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, offering a super bouncy feel that adds a level of euphoria to each keystroke. It invites a smooth, fluid typing experience, making it particularly enjoyable for those who prefer linear switches, although it lacks the tactile feedback of the Creamy Purple Pro.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) provide unique experiences, they cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro wins on tactile feedback and sound volume, making it suitable for enthusiasts who enjoy audio and tactile stimulation during typing. Conversely, the Lotus (Heavy) appeals to users looking for a more linear, bouncy experience with bright acoustics. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and deeper sounds or a smooth, lighter touch combined with a lively auditory response.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the overall experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback with a lighter actuation weight, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be an excellent choice. Its invigorating bump and bassier sound profile provide a satisfying, engaging typing experience, making it well-suited for both typing and gaming, particularly if you value auditory and tactile cues. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key feel with a medium-heavy weighting that offers a bouncier response, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) could be the right fit for you. With its bright sound signature and delightful feedback, these switches cater to those who appreciate a more robust typing feel. Your choice should reflect your typing habits and personal style—whether you lean towards the excitement of the tactile experience or the smooth, bouncy enjoyment of a linear switch.
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