Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Red Panda, both of which offer unique tactile experiences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its pronounced tactile bump and a distinctly loud sound signature that leans towards the bassier end of the spectrum, making it a great choice for users who enjoy pronounced feedback and an audible typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda features a light to medium level of tactility, combined with a unique sound profile that includes a bassy, raindrop-like bottom-out noise and a higher-pitched clacky top-out sound, appealing to those who prefer a more subtle yet still satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you favor the robust feedback of the Creamy Purple Pro or the nuanced sound and feel of the Red Panda. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Red Panda utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a sound profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sounds. The rigidity of the polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the audio experience when the switches are engaged, making them particularly appealing for users who prioritize sound in their typing or gaming setup. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through, which is a significant aesthetic advantage for those looking to customize their keyboard's appearance. This shared material choice means users can expect similar auditory and visual results from both switches, especially when implemented in an RGB-lit environment.
In contrast to their identical top housing, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, diverging in the qualities they each bring to the overall sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer material properties, which dampen sounds and result in a fuller, deeper sound when typing. This characteristic creates a more muted and rounded acoustic experience compared to the clear, crisp sounds associated with the polycarbonate top. This combination of polycarbonate at the top and nylon at the bottom for both switches allows for a unique interplay of sound dynamics. While the tops resonate with clarity, the nylon bottoms help to cushion the impact, producing a satisfying, rich auditory experience.
Ultimately, the differing performances of the top and bottom housings influence the overall user experience. In both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Red Panda, the polycarbonate top contributes to the initial keystroke sound, while the nylon bottom heavily influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback. Thus, while both switches share similar materials for the top and bottom housings, they combine to create a distinctive sound profile that blends the clarity of polycarbonate with the deeper resonance of nylon, ensuring that users receive a carefully balanced typing experience. Those who appreciate the interplay of sound depth and clarity will find both switches offer a compelling option.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to distinct user preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer, less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda comes with a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to typists who enjoy a more substantial push feel. The differences in these forces mean that users will find the V3 Creamy Purple Pro easier to activate and less fatiguing over long periods, while the Red Panda offers a firmer feedback that some might find more satisfying. Therefore, if you prioritize a lighter feel for comfort, the Akko switch is the preferable option, whereas those who desire a stronger tactile experience should opt for the Outemu switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda has a longer travel distance of 3.3 mm. For users who prioritize responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience, the shorter travel distance of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be preferable, as it allows for faster actuation. Conversely, the Red Panda, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial key press, offering a depth that some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus key feedback depth.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 produces a loud auditory profile characterized by a bass-heavy pitch. This results in a booming resonance that can be invigorating for those who enjoy a more prominent sound while typing. Conversely, the Outemu Red Panda offers a unique auditory experience with a light-medium tactility, complemented by a thocky bottom-out sound that provides a deeper and richer sound with each keystroke. The top-out sound is clackier and higher-pitched, giving it a distinct tonal contrast. While both switches cater to enthusiasts who appreciate engaging soundscapes, the Creamy Purple Pro leans towards a more robust, booming profile, while the Red Panda balances between thocky and clacky tones.
When examining the feel of these switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced and invigorating tactile bump, providing a clear feedback during each keypress that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda is classified as mild, which means it delivers a gentler typing sensation. This gentleness makes the Red Panda approachable for users who prefer a less aggressive tactile response, emphasizing an easier transition between key presses. Although they cater to different preferences, both switches offer distinct tactile experiences; the Creamy Purple Pro is ideal for those looking for significant tactile feedback, while the Red Panda is suitable for typists who enjoy a more subdued, yet still enjoyable, tactile sensation.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Red Panda present unique qualities that will resonate with different users. The Creamy Purple Pro is best for those who delight in a loud, bass-heavy sound and a firm tactile bump, creating a robust typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda appeals to those who seek a blend of a satisfying thocky sound with a milder tactile feel. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, leading to equally enjoyable typing results.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches really depends on your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you desire. If you're a newcomer who enjoys a light actuation force combined with a prominent tactile bump and a loud, bassy sound, then the V3 Creamy Purple Pro could be the perfect fit for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it easier to type quickly, and the pronounced tactile feedback can enhance your typing efficiency while delivering a lively auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with slightly heavier resistance and a more subdued tactile response, the Outemu Red Panda may be more suitable. Its 60-gram bottom-out force provides a firmer feel which can be gratifying for those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience, alongside a "thocky" sound that many find satisfying. Ultimately, consider whether you prioritize a lighter, louder switch or a heavier, softer one, as this will guide you toward the switch that best suits your unique typing style.
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