Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Huano Sakura (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Sakura (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Sakura highlights the diverse preferences among typists and gamers. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback with each keystroke, ideal for those who enjoy a more engaged typing experience. Additionally, its loud sound signature, with a bassier pitch, adds an auditory element that can enhance the joy of typing. In contrast, the Huano Sakura, classified as a linear switch, offers a feather-light touch and medium acoustic profile, making it perfect for users who prioritize smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes during extended typing sessions. Each switch caters to different needs: the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is perfect for those who love tactile feedback and sound, while the Sakura is geared towards those who prefer a lighter touch and minimal resistance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Sakura switches exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, with the Akko utilizing polycarbonate and the Sakura employing POK (polyketone). The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is recognized for its ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This clarity is particularly beneficial for those who value an enhanced auditory experience, especially when RGB lighting is factored in, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for vibrant backlighting to shine through. On the other hand, the POK top housing of the Sakura adds its unique smoothness thanks to its low coefficient of friction and excellent durability, which translates to a distinctively clacky sound while typing. Although both materials contribute to unique sound profiles, users aiming for precision might prefer either switch based on their specific auditory preferences.
When considering the bottom housing, both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Sakura utilize nylon, a traditional choice known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that the overall typing experience remains consistent between the two switches, allowing for a rounder sound that contrasts with the sharper notes produced by the individual top housing materials. In essence, despite the differing sounds and feels of the top housings, the nylon bottom provides a shared depth and warmth that grounds the overall auditory experience. Thus, users can expect a certain level of similarity in sound character, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the typing feel and bottom-out sound.
In summary, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Sakura switches differ in their top housing materials, they share a commonality in their nylon bottom housings, which significantly influences the overall sound profile. The contrasting top materials mean users will experience varied auditory responses when pressing and releasing keys, with the V3's polycarbonate offering sharper clarity versus the Sakura's smoother clackiness. However, thanks to the nylon, both switches will capture a rounded, fulfilling acoustic experience, making them appealing choices for different preferences. Therefore, switching between the two may yield a refreshing variety in typing feel while maintaining a degree of familiarity in the deeper sound profile.
Weight
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option between the two. In contrast, the Sakura switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 35 grams, though its bottom out force is only 45 grams, which is also relatively light. This means that while the Sakura switch provides a stronger resistance when first engaging, it ultimately bottoms out with less force than the V3 Creamy Purple Pro. Therefore, users who prioritize a lighter typing experience may find the Akko switch more suitable, especially for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes may lean towards the Huano Sakura for its slightly heavier actuation force. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences, with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro being lighter and the Sakura offering a firmer initial push.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Huano Sakura linear switch has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the V3 Creamy Purple Pro the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that gamers often prefer for quicker keystrokes. In contrast, the Sakura's 3.6 mm travel offers a more pronounced depth, which some users might find more satisfying for typographical purposes. Consequently, if you're looking for a more immediate response, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be suitable, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke might gravitate towards the Huano Sakura. Overall, the difference in travel distances suggests that while both can deliver satisfactory results based on user preference, they cater to distinct typing experiences.
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 Huano Sakura (V2) comes in at $4.59 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 offers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by a loud sound signature with a bassier pitch. This can make each keystroke more pronounced and can add an engaging element to typing and gaming alike. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch produces medium acoustics that are more subdued, providing a feather-light touch that is less intrusive on the auditory senses. The quieter nature of the Sakura can be particularly appealing for extended typing sessions, as it allows for a more discreet environment.
When considering the feel of each switch, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with a large and invigorating tactile bump that provides a more pronounced feedback on keystrokes, making it a great choice for those who enjoy feeling each activation distinctly. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura offers a smooth and feather-light touch, resulting in an effortless typing experience with no tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a fluid and linear action without the interruption of a bump.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different user preferences: the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro delivers an audible and tactile experience suited for those who enjoy strong feedback while typing, while the Huano Sakura linear switch promotes a quieter and lighter touch that is excellent for prolonged use. Choosing between these options will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize tactile engagement or a more understated, smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback that can guide your fingers as you type and appreciate a more dynamic sound profile, the Creamy Purple Pro is a solid choice. Its heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams provides a robust feel that many typists find satisfying, especially when typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, lighter touch that enables quick key presses and minimizes finger fatigue during longer typing sessions, the Sakura linear switch is the way to go. With its feather-light bottom-out force of 45 grams and more subdued acoustics, it is perfect for those who value a seamless and quiet experience. Ultimately, consider how you intend to use your keyboard: for a tactile, engaging experience, go with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro; for a light, effortless approach, opt for the Huano Sakura.
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