Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its pronounced tactile bump and a loud, bass-heavy sound signature, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a more stimulating feel and auditory feedback while they work. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, while less known for unique features, provides a smoother keystroke experience with a subtler tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing environment without sacrificing the tactile sensation. Each switch has its strengths: the Creamy Purple Pro is perfect for those who thrive on robust feedback and sound, while the Dustproof Brown caters to a more understated approach. 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
65g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches are constructed from similar materials, with both featuring polycarbonate in their top housing. This similarity results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, characterized by its crisp resonance. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity of the sound, making both switches suitable choices for users who appreciate a more defined auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate provides an appealing visual aesthetic, particularly when paired with RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through effectively. Therefore, users can expect a comparable auditory experience when using either switch, especially regarding the key release sound due to their identical top housing materials.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches diverge in terms of the sound profiles they produce. Both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dustproof Brown utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic, which leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound waves compared to harder plastics. This characteristic enhances the overall typing experience, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that most typists find satisfying. While both switches feature nylon in their bottom housing, this more muted auditory response will influence the keypress experience when the switch bottoms out, providing a different feel compared to the crisper top housing of both switches.
The combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Brown demonstrates a well-balanced approach to typist experience. Although the top housings transmit a bright and clear sound due to the rigidity of polycarbonate, the nylon bottoms soften the feedback for a more enjoyable experience. Users can expect consistent performance in terms of auditory quality from both models, with the unique properties of each material contributing to a full-spectrum typing experience. The simultaneous use of these materials ensures that while the top housing delivers clarity and resonance, the bottom housing complements it with a rounded, pleasant finish to each keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro requires an actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown demands a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that for those who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the more suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a firmer feedback with a more substantial feel while typing may gravitate toward the Outemu Dustproof Brown. Overall, the choice between these two switches largely hinges on individual preferences for weight and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, making it a more shallow option, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, offering a more traditional and deeper feel that some users might prefer for its more pronounced feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: those favoring responsiveness may lean towards the shorter 3 mm distance of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might opt for the 4 mm travel distance of the Dustproof Brown.
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 Dustproof Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch is characterized by a loud auditory profile with a bassier pitch that makes its presence known with each key press. This sound signature enhances the typing experience by providing a satisfying acoustic feedback, which is appreciated by many users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory stimulation while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have a specified sound profile, but one can generally expect a softer and more muted acoustic response typical of most brown switches. However, the overall sound of any switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, which means that users can experiment for a variety of outcomes regardless of the switch type.
When considering the feel of these switches, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a noteworthy tactile performance, highlighted by a substantial tactile bump that provides a clear indication of actuation. This prominent tactile feedback is inviting for typists who relish a dynamic typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is known for a more understated tactile sensation with a gentler bump, making it suitable for users seeking a more subtle feedback in their typing experience. While both switches are tactile, the degree of feedback and the overall sensation will be noticeably different, catering to diverse preferences among typists.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a loud sound signature paired with a pronounced tactile feel, making it a compelling choice for users who appreciate a tactile and auditory cue while typing. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Brown presents a softer sound with a gentler tactile experience, appealing to those who prefer a quieter and less intrusive typing feel. Both switches cater to different typing preferences; therefore, users can ultimately choose the switch that best aligns with their desired combination of sound and feel for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switches will largely depend on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a lighter touch and desire pronounced tactile feedback, along with a satisfying, louder, bassier sound profile, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro could be the ideal choice for you. This switch is particularly well-suited for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a responsive feel and do not mind the noise that comes with their keystrokes, making it a great option for gaming and general writing without requiring a quiet environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust typing experience with a firmer actuation force, the Dustproof Brown switch offers a medium-heavy feel at 65 grams. This makes it conducive for a balance between typing and gaming while helping to minimize accidental keypresses. Since this switch is generally quieter and lacks the standout features of the Creamy Purple Pro, it would be a better fit for office environments or shared spaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the balance you prefer between tactility, actuation force, noise, and the settings in which you’ll be using your mechanical keyboard.
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