Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Cherry MX Brown present two distinct tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, delivering an exhilarating feedback that many typists appreciate, along with a louder sound signature characterized by deeper, bassy tones. This switch is ideal for those who thrive on an engaging typing experience and enjoy the auditory feedback it provides. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown offers a more understated experience; with its gentle tactile response and subdued audio output, this switch is perfect for users seeking a smooth and quieter typing environment. The MX Brown's subtlety makes it a popular choice among professional environments where noise control is important. Both switches have their merits depending on the user's typing style and sound preferences; however, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches employ differing materials for their top housings, which significantly influence the auditory characteristics of each switch. The Akko V3 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, delivering a sharper, more resonant sound profile due to the material's rigidity. This creates a higher-pitched sound that is notably clear, ideal for gamers or typists who appreciate a brighter auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch features a nylon top housing that contributes to a deeper, more muted sound profile. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it tends to absorb more sound, producing a rounder and less piercing auditory experience. This fundamental difference sets the stage for distinct typing experiences that are critical for users depending on their preferences.
Despite the contrast in the top housing materials, both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housings. This commonality means that both the Akko V3 and Cherry MX Brown will elicit that characteristic deeper and fuller sound when the key is bottomed out. The nylon bottom housing's ability to absorb sound fosters a more pronounced thud when the key is pressed down, making the tactile experience of both switches similar at that critical moment in the typing action. Because of this, users of either switch can expect a certain level of satisfaction when it comes to the bottom-out experience; the resonance and pressure felt at the end of the keystroke will feel familiar, despite the differences in top housing materials.
Overall, the distinct materials used in the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Cherry MX Brown define their unique sound profiles, yet the shared use of nylon in the bottom housings creates an intriguing contrast. Users can anticipate a brighter experience with the Akko V3 due to its polycarbonate top, while those who prefer a more subdued and rounded quality will find the Cherry MX Brown appealing. Ultimately, while the auditory signatures in both examples differ primarily in the top housing, the bottom housing consistency allows for similar tactile experiences when pressing the keys, bridging the gap between the two typing experiences even amidst their key differences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a relatively light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to activate. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. Overall, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter option, appealing to those who prioritize ease of use and comfort over extended periods, while the Cherry MX Brown provides a firmer feel that could enhance typing satisfaction for those who enjoy a more forceful push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, a clear distinction is evident. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance can influence user experience significantly; gamers may lean towards the Akko switch for its quicker response time due to the shallower travel, which allows for faster actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback and deeper key press might prefer the Cherry MX Brown switch. Thus, while both switches offer tactile feedback, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is better suited for quicker actions, making it the more responsive choice, whereas the Cherry MX Brown provides a more traditional and hearty typing experience.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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
When considering the sound qualities of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switches, a notable distinction emerges. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by a loud sound signature that leans toward a bassier tone, making it quite prominent during typing sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown has a more subtle auditory presence, offering low-pitched feedback that is mellow and less aggressive. This difference in sound profile means that if you're looking for a more pronounced auditory experience, the V3 is the preferable choice, while the MX Brown is ideal for those who prefer quieter operation without sacrificing tactility.
In terms of feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its polished, bouncy, and invigorating characteristics. These switches provide a smooth typing experience with a lively feedback sensation, as they feature a pronounced tactile bump that makes for an engaging typing experience. The tactile feedback is described as accented, offering a balance that is neither overwhelming nor too subtle. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown offers a more subdued tactile response, described as textured, which can introduce some noticeable friction during key presses. This can make the typing experience feel less fluid compared to the Creamy Purple Pro, which thrives on its lively actuation.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences in their sound and feel. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is suited for users who enjoy an expressive audio feedback and a dynamic tactile response, while the Cherry MX Brown may be more appealing for those who seek a quieter and more subtle typing experience. By understanding these differences, newcomers can make an informed choice that suits their personal typing style, ensuring that each switch offers a unique experience that aligns with their preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the experiences you seek. If you enjoy a lively, invigorating typing experience that features a pronounced tactile bump and a bass-heavy sound signature, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be the ideal choice for you. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, alongside its polished and bouncy feel, will give you a smooth and engaging experience, perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and refined touch, with gentle tactility and subdued sound, the Cherry MX Brown switch is likely the better option. With a bottom-out force of 55 grams, it offers a balanced typing experience that is more suited for extended typing sessions without overwhelming your senses. Its low-pitched audio feedback and textured feel will provide a comfortable yet understated interaction, making it great for both typing and gaming. In essence, consider what aspects of a switch matter most to you: the vibrant feedback and sound of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, or the restrained elegance of the MX Brown, to make an informed decision that enhances your typing experience.
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