Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options often come up: the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Black. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile feedback, providing users with a satisfying bump during each keystroke that enhances typing experience for both gaming and productivity. Its distinctive bassy sound signature further adds to its character, making it a favorite among those who enjoy auditory feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch is known for its smooth linear action, delivering a quiet and consistent keystroke that many typists and gamers appreciate, especially in environments where noise levels matter. Choosing the V3 Creamy Purple Pro could appeal to those who thrive on tactile sensations and sound, while the Outemu Black might be preferred by users seeking a minimalist tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Black, it is clear that both switches utilize the same materials in their construction. The top housing of both switches is made from polycarbonate, recognized for its capability to deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This similarity allows users to expect a consistent auditory quality when typing, as the polycarbonate's stiffness ensures clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate enhances the visual aesthetics when RGB lighting is utilized, making both switches visually appealing in backlit scenarios.
However, while the top housings are identical in material, the bottom housings also contribute significantly to the overall sound profile, and here too both switches utilize nylon. The nylon bottom housing is known for delivering a deeper and fuller sound, as its relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound. This characteristic softens the auditory experience, leading to a rounder sound profile when typing. Thus, both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Black will exhibit a complementary sound profile generated by the interplay of the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, with each contributing to a distinct auditory experience during keystrokes.
The interaction between the two types of housing in both switches emphasizes that they are designed to work together harmoniously. The sharpness of the polycarbonate top enhances the sound when key releases occur, while the nylon bottom dampens and enriches the sound felt during key presses. Since both switches employ the same materials, users can expect a similar performance and acoustic quality regardless of their choice. This coherence in material selection not only illustrates the thoughtful engineering behind these switches but also ensures that typists will enjoy a comparable tactile feel and sound experience, making either option a strong contender for enthusiasts focused on auditory and tactile feedback in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, there are significant differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features an actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that may be preferred for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch has a notably heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, delivering a more substantial typing experience that some users may find satisfying but can be tiring for extended use. Ultimately, those who favor a lighter touch will lean towards the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, while those who prefer a firmer push will opt for the heavier Outemu Black switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, a distinction can clearly be made: the V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Outemu Black boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the V3 is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel beneficial for gamers aiming for quicker reaction times. In contrast, the Outemu Black's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper, more substantial keypress, providing a more traditional typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two largely depends on personal preference for responsiveness versus a more pronounced 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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch is characterized by a loud and distinct auditory feedback, with a bassier tone that gives a rich and punchy presence. This sound signature makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more audible typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have an established sound profile, which means it tends to be quieter during operation. This lack of auditory feedback can lead to a more subdued typing experience but may also appeal to users who prefer less noise in their environment.
In terms of feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro provides a pronounced tactile bump that users can easily feel as they press the keys. This tactile feedback adds a layer of satisfaction to each keystroke, making it enjoyable for typing and gaming alike. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch delivers a smooth, uninterrupted key press without a tactile bump. This linear action is favored by users who prefer a consistent key travel without any resistance, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming scenarios.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch offers a loud and tactile experience, the Outemu Black linear switch caters to those who appreciate a quieter and smoother keypress. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback. If you value pronounced feedback and a richer sound, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro will serve you well. However, if you lean towards a minimalistic and quieter typing experience, the Outemu Black could be the right fit for you.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch will largely depend on your preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a tactile bump that provides clear feedback as you type and prefer a lighter actuation with a more prominent and bass-heavy sound, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the way to go. It's particularly well-suited for typists who relish the satisfaction of tactile feedback and don’t mind a louder keystroke. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile feedback and prefer a heavier actuation, the Outemu Black linear switch may be your best bet. It is ideal for gamers seeking rapid key presses with minimal resistance and a quieter sound profile. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean more towards an engaging tactile experience or a fluid, linear feel while typing or gaming.
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