Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can significantly influence your typing experience. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its pronounced tactile bump, delivering an invigorating feedback that many typists crave. This switch not only provides a satisfying tactile sensation but also produces a loud, deeper sound signature that some users find enjoyable. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a smoother, linear experience perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. Known for its heavier variant, the Xinhai switch features a PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile, paired with a POM stem that ensures a crisp, higher-pitched keystroke. While the Creamy Purple Pro may appeal to users looking for tactile feedback and an audible click, the Xinhai (Heavy) caters to those desiring a more subtle and refined touch with its linear feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences the sound profiles they deliver. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucency. This construction contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate clarity, especially with RGB lighting due to the material's light-transmitting properties. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing that yields a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer material compared to polycarbonate, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder audio experience. The difference in materials reflects a fundamental shift in the auditory characteristics each switch provides, catering to varied preferences among users.
Both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which creates a level of consistency in the auditory characteristics at this level. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound during key presses and enhancing a rounded audio output. This shared characteristic ensures that regardless of the differences in their top housings, both switches will provide a satisfying base when typing. The nylon bottom housing’s effect on the bottom-out sound and feel creates a unified tactile experience for both models, emphasizing the importance of bottom housing materials in crafting a signature sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) differ, the distinct qualities of each material shape the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 emphasizes brightness and clarity during releases, while the nylon top of the Xinhai softens the sound profile significantly. However, both switches benefit from their nylon bottoms, which balance each configuration by contributing to a satisfying tactile feedback and a rounded auditory experience upon bottoming out. For users who prioritize a certain sound quality, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference, but the similarities in the nylon bottom housing ensure that both will deliver a rich and full typing experience overall.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch to the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a noticeable distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch provides a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, while the two switches serve different user preferences effectively, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter choice, perfect for long-term usage, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch is more suited for individuals looking for a firmer feeling under their fingers.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present a notable difference in travel distance, with the former measuring 3 mm and the latter at 3.4 mm. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has the shorter travel distance, appealing to gamers and those who favor quicker response times, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more traditional and deeper travel that some users might find more satisfying for typing or gaming. If you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter 3 mm travel of the V3 may be advantageous, whereas the 3.4 mm travel of the Xinhai provides a more substantial feel that could enhance tactile feedback for users who prefer a deeper keypress. Therefore, if you seek a swift action, the Creamy Purple Pro is suitable, while the HMX Xinhai caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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
The sound qualities of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present two distinct experiences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts a loud sound signature with a bassier pitch, which can resonate with a more pronounced auditory presence during typing. This can create an exhilarating atmosphere, especially in a quiet setting where each keystroke stands out. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a softer acoustics profile due to its PA12 top housing, producing a higher-pitched and crisper resonance. This can provide a more refined auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer a gentler sound while typing, ultimately reflecting a unique character compared to the V3.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is noted for its significant tactile bump, giving typists an invigorating sensation as they press down on the keys. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and engagement, making each actuation feel satisfying and deliberate. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch is designed to blend sophistication with performance, but specifics about its tactile feel are less elaborated upon. The absence of detailed tactile characteristics leaves room for intrigue, suggesting that its subtler touch might cater to those who appreciate a smoother experience, albeit without the pronounced bump of the Creamy Purple Pro.
In summary, while both switches offer unique experiences, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its bold tactile feedback and resonant sound profile that captivates with its vividness. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) emphasizes subtlety with a smoother feel and a crisp audio signature, creating a more sophisticated typing environment. Ultimately, your preference between these two will hinge on whether you value the robust tactile response and auditory excitement of the Creamy Purple Pro or lean towards the understated elegance of the Xinhai.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump and are drawn to a louder sound signature with a bassier tone, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is likely your best choice. Its lighter actuation force of 50 grams allows for quick and effortless typing, making it suitable for those who prefer a responsive feel while offering an engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued, linear feel with a heavier actuation force of 62.5 grams, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch would be ideal. It combines a smoother keystroke with a subtle sophistication, perfect for users who value precision and a crisp sound profile. Ultimately, consider how you interact with your keyboard—if you enjoy feedback and auditory excitement, lean towards the V3 Creamy Purple Pro; for a more refined and controlled typing experience, go with the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
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