Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Maple Leaf both offer unique tactile experiences that can significantly influence your typing enjoyment. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is well-regarded for its pronounced tactile bump, delivering a satisfying feedback with each keystroke, complemented by a loud sound signature that leans towards the bassier side—a characteristic that many gamers and typists appreciate for its engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, while the Outemu Maple Leaf lacks a defining standout feature, its reliable tactile response makes it a solid choice for users seeking a more subtle yet dependable typing experience. Ultimately, your preference will depend on whether you desire a more pronounced tactile sensation and auditory feedback with the Creamy Purple Pro or a quieter, more refined experience with the Maple Leaf. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches utilize different materials for their top housing, leading to distinct sound profiles that influence the overall typing experience. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer properties, allowing it to produce a more resonant sound. In contrast, the Maple Leaf's top housing is constructed from nylon, a classic switch material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound vibrations compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic quality. Thus, while both switches can deliver engaging auditory experiences, the materials used fundamentally steer their unique sound characteristics.
The bottoms of both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches are made from nylon, which offers a more muted sound profile regardless of the differences present in their top housings. The nylon bottom is instrumental in creating a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out, further emphasizing the muted acoustics of the switch. Given that both switches share the same bottom housing material, their performance in this regard will be quite similar, showcasing a rounded acoustic experience that balances the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top in the V3 Creamy Purple Pro. As such, even though their top housings present differing sonic profiles, both switches can still provide a consistent and rich bottoming-out sound.
Now, as each switch's top and bottom housings create unique sound signatures, users may experience different tactile feedback and auditory responses depending on their preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts a rapid response characteristic associated with its polycarbonate top housing, while the Maple Leaf's nylon top lingers on the ear with its soft, plush feel. Despite these distinctions, both switches emphasize a complementary relationship between their housings. The influence of the bottom housing on the overall acoustics remains substantial, ensuring that users of either switch will experience satisfying bottom-out sounds, creating a shared sense of depth in their typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two may hinge on the preference for a crisper or a rounder sound profile.
Weight
The comparison between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch reveals notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an appealing choice for users who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who favor a firmer keystroke. Consequently, the Maple Leaf is the heavier option, while the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter choice, allowing users to select their preferred typing feel based on their individual needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, making it one of the shorter options available, thus offering quicker response times that gamers often favor. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm, providing a more substantial feel that some users may find preferable for a richer typing experience. If you value responsiveness and a lighter touch, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the better choice; however, if you enjoy a deeper keystroke, the Maple Leaf would likely suit your needs better. Ultimately, those looking for a tactile switch can weigh these travel distances to align with their personal comfort and performance preferences.
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 Maple Leaf 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 switch is notable for its loud audio profile, featuring a bass-heavy pitch that adds a rich auditory texture to each keystroke. This robust sound can be invigorating for users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing. Conversely, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch does not have a described sound signature, leaving its aural qualities open to speculation. However, it is important to remember that the overall sound experience is influenced by additional factors, such as the keyboard chassis and the keycap materials used, meaning users will have to explore these combinations to fully understand the Maple Leaf’s acoustic characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a prominent tactile bump that delivers a satisfying and noticeable feedback with each key press. This heaviness of the tactile response can enhance typing accuracy and comfort for users who prefer a definite tactile sensation. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is not specified, which leaves questions about its tactile quality and overall typing experience. While some users may appreciate a lighter bump, others may find themselves yearning for that tactile satisfaction, making it an important consideration when choosing a switch.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Outemu Maple Leaf switches present different characteristics that cater to varied preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its loud, bassy sound and strong tactile feel, making it ideal for those seeking a more immersive typing experience. The Outemu Maple Leaf, while lacking detailed sound and feel descriptions, invites curiosity about its performance. Ultimately, if you're looking for a pronounced auditory and tactile experience, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is a solid choice, while the Maple Leaf may require further investigation.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch will heavily depend on your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you favor a lighter actuation with a prominent tactile bump and prefer a louder, bassier sound when typing, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the ideal option for you. It can provide an engaging and satisfying feedback, making it a great choice for gamers and typists who enjoy a responsive feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer keypress with a medium-heavy actuation force and are indifferent to the switch's auditory characteristics—since the Maple Leaf lacks a distinct sound signature—the Outemu Maple Leaf might be more suitable. This switch caters to users who appreciate a sturdier feel while typing, which can lead to a more deliberate and controlled keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what aspects of typing—be it sound, feel, or actuation force—are most important for your unique setup.
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