Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Tom present two distinct but appealing options for tactile switch enthusiasts. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump that provides a satisfying feedback with each keystroke, complemented by a louder sound profile leaning towards the bass end, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Tom, while also a tactile switch, offers a different feel and sound signature that may be better suited for those who prefer a more subtle approach without compromising on the tactile experience. Ultimately, these switches cater to different user preferences; the lively feedback and sound of the Creamy Purple Pro can enhance gaming and typing enjoyment, whereas the Outemu Tom may appeal to users seeking a less ostentatious option. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Tom switches share a notable similarity in their top housing material, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. With both switches featuring translucent top housings, they not only boast aesthetic appeal when paired with RGB lighting but also enhance sound clarity. The shared use of polycarbonate means that typists can expect a consistent sound experience when pressing and releasing keys, as the resonant qualities of this material dominate the auditory feedback during operation.
In contrast to their matching top housings, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Tom diverge in their bottom housing materials. Both switches favor nylon for their bottom housings, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a bottom-out experience that is both duller and rounder compared to the sharper attack of the polycarbonate top. Consequently, while the sound signature from the top housing remains bright and clear, the combined effect of the nylon bottom brings a balance and warmth that enriches the overall typing experience. This difference in sound qualities further differentiates the switches, providing unique feedback based on the key press dynamics.
Overall, despite the divergence in bottom housing materials, the common use of polycarbonate in the tops of both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Outemu Tom assures a degree of consistency in sound characteristics. Typers can expect a coherent auditory experience that showcases brightness when keys are released, while the fuller sound from the nylon bottoms complements the overall typing feel. This blend of qualities emphasizes how each material contributes uniquely to the switch experience, allowing users to relish a range of textures, tones, and feedback with each keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, significant differences in actuation force highlight their distinct user experiences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Tom requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel under their fingers while typing. The bottom out force of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is 50 grams, providing a clear tactile feedback upon pressing the key down fully. However, the bottom out force for the Outemu Tom is unavailable, leaving a gap in comparison. Overall, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter option, suitable for users seeking ease and comfort, while the Outemu Tom caters to those who enjoy a stronger push feel in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it a shallower option suitable for those who prioritize responsiveness, especially gamers looking for quicker key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Tom has a longer travel distance of 3.3 mm, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feeling while typing, as it provides a deeper tactile response. Overall, this means that the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers the shorter travel distance, while the Outemu Tom has the longer travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Tom 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 its loud output, offering a bassier pitch that provides an invigorating auditory experience for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. This sound profile is likely to resonate well in a gaming or typing environment where auditory cues are appreciated. The Outemu Tom tactile switch, however, lacks a specific sound profile description, leaving its sound characteristics uncertain. It's important to note that the overall sound expression of any switch will also depend on additional factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is renowned for its substantial and invigorating tactile bump, providing satisfying feedback with every keystroke. This tactile sensation can enhance the overall typing experience for users who prefer a more pronounced response. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch has not been detailed, leaving its tactile feedback quality unspecified. As with sound, the experience of typing or gaming will still hinge on how a switch interacts with the keyboard's body and the selected keycaps.
In summary, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch stands out with its loud, bassy sound profile and its strong tactile feedback, making it a compelling choice for users seeking an engaging auditory and tactile experience. Meanwhile, the Outemu Tom's qualities remain relatively vague, particularly its sound and feel characteristics. Thus, if you choose the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, you can expect a lively typing experience, while the Tom remains a wildcard without sufficient information to thoroughly compare.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light actuation force, a pronounced tactile bump, and are drawn to auditory feedback with a bassy sound profile, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be an excellent fit for you. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a responsive typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and intense typing sessions. On the other hand, the lack of detailed information regarding the Outemu Tom switch suggests it may not provide the same level of tactile feedback or sound clarity as the V3 Creamy Purple Pro. Therefore, if you prefer something more experimental or less mainstream, the Tom may appeal to you, albeit cautiously given its undefined characteristics. Ultimately, the choice hinges on your desire for tactile feedback and sound, so choose the switch that best complements your typing experience.
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