Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, particularly between tactile and linear switches. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is a tactile switch that stands out for its pronounced tactile bump and a loud, bassy sound signature, making it a great choice for those who appreciate feedback and auditory stimulation while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is a legendary linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, delivering a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke ideal for gaming and fast-paced typing. Both switches cater to different user experiences; while the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is perfect for typists who enjoy a pronounced tactile response, the Cherry MX Red appeals to those who prefer a quieter and more linear action. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Cherry MX Red, notable differences emerge that influence their respective sound profiles and tactile experiences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its rigidity and translucency, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound when pressed. This quality allows for a clear and resonant audio experience, particularly appealing for users who appreciate the nuances of typing sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material enables effective RGB lighting effects, making it visually striking. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red features a nylon top housing, a classic choice that is known for absorbing sound and resulting in a deeper, rounder auditory profile. This difference in sound attributes creates distinct auditory experiences for users.
In terms of bottom housing, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro also utilizes nylon, much like the Cherry MX Red. This choice lends to a similar foundational sound characteristic, as both switches present a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out. The nylon material's softer nature contributes to a dampening effect, creating a muted and satisfying typing experience. Thus, despite the differences in their top housings, the use of nylon at the bottom for both the V3 and MX Red means that both can produce a similar result in terms of sound when the keys are fully pressed down.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Cherry MX Red creates a unique typing experience that users may prefer for different reasons. Users of the Akko V3 may enjoy the clear, resonant sound produced by its polycarbonate top, accentuated by the dampened bottom provided by nylon, creating a balanced feel. In contrast, Cherry MX Red users benefit from the consistent sound and tactile feedback that both nylon materials provide. This interplay of top and bottom housing materials highlights the importance of construction in crafting a desirable keyboard experience, showcasing how different materials can yield varied results in sound profile and feel, while still preserving certain auditory characteristics through the use of common components.
Weight
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch differ significantly in their actuation forces, with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro requiring just 30 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the MX Red necessitates a heavier 45 grams. This makes the Akko switch notably lighter, which can be advantageous for users who engage in extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, as the reduced force can lead to less fatigue. In terms of bottom out forces, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro's is measured at 50 grams, contrasting with the unspecified bottom out force for the MX Red. As a result, while both switches serve different preferences—lighter for the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and a heavier feel for the MX Red—users seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the latter due to its higher actuation force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has a standard travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the V3 Creamy Purple Pro the shorter option, catering to those who value quick response times, which is often favored by gamers seeking an edge in performance. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced keypress and a deeper feel. Ultimately, if you choose the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, you can expect a snappier and more tactile experience due to its shallower travel distance, whereas the Cherry MX Red offers a more traditional and robust typing sensation.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches stand out with a loud auditory signature that leans towards the bassier side, making them particularly invigorating for users who enjoy a more pronounced audio feedback while typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switches produce a thocky sound, characterized by a deep, rich quality that results in a satisfying auditory experience. The deeper, low-pitched tones of the MX Red enhance the overall typing ambiance, imparting a robust sound that many users appreciate. Both switches will deliver immersive auditory interactions, but the V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a louder expression while the MX Reds maintain that classic, deeper richness.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is best known for its large, invigorating tactile bump, providing a clear indication of actuation that users often find satisfying and engaging. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switches are slightly heavier and feature a textured sensation which can introduce a bit of scratchiness for those who are sensitive to such friction. The tactile experience is therefore quite distinct: the Creamy Purple Pro promotes a more reactive touch experience due to its pronounced bump, while the MX Red may feel a bit more substantial and textured, appealing to different preferences in user satisfaction.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Cherry MX Red switches present unique qualities that cater to different typists. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro excels in sound with its loud, bass-heavy profile and tactile feedback, while the MX Red is favored for its deep, thocky sound combined with a slightly heavier, textured feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend greatly on whether you prioritize an engaging auditory experience and tactile feedback or a balanced, robust typing sensation with auditory depth; selecting either can lead to fulfilling typing experiences tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Cherry MX Red switches largely depends on your typing preferences and the experience you're looking for. If you enjoy a tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that enhances your keystrokes, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent option, especially if you appreciate a louder, bass-rich sound signature to accompany your typing experience. This switch can be particularly satisfying for typing or even gaming, as the tactile response helps you feel each key press distinctly. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more linear experience that allows for rapid key presses without any tactile interruptions, the Cherry MX Red is likely more suitable for your needs. Its thocky and low-pitched sound offers a satisfying depth, making it a popular choice for both gaming and typing without the distraction of loud feedback. Ultimately, consider how you intend to use your keyboard—be it for typing, gaming, or a mix of both—and select the switch that aligns best with your personal preference for feel and sound.
Mentioned in this article
