Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact the typing experience, and two popular options on the market are the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Cherry MX Orange. The V3 Crystal Pro is renowned for its fully polycarbonate construction, which not only contributes to its distinctive bright and chirpy sound signature but also ensures a silky smooth typing experience. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a bouncy and polished feel while typing, making it a trendy option for gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, revived from the original MX models, are designed with enhancements that cater to those seeking reliability and performance. While the MX Orange may not have the same pronounced audio characteristics as the Akko V3, its robust build and dependable feedback make it a solid choice for users who prioritize tactile responsiveness without excessive noise. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preferences, 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
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Cherry MX Orange switches showcase significant differences in their housing materials, which contribute to the overall acoustic and tactile experience. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its rigidity and translucence. This rigid plastic allows the switch to deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback during typing. The aesthetic advantage of polycarbonate is notable, especially for users who utilize RGB lighting, as the material’s clear nature enhances the visual effects. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange employs a nylon top housing that produces a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb sound. The softer texture of nylon provides a rounder acoustic experience, appealing to users who prefer a more muted sound when typing.
Examining the bottom housings of these switches reveals further distinctions rooted in material properties. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, maintaining that crisp, resonant quality throughout the typing experience. This reinforces the characteristic sound profile established by the top housing, allowing for a consistent auditory feedback whether you’re bottoming out the keys or releasing them. On the other hand, the MX Orange's nylon bottom housing generates a deeper, rounder sound profile, effectively normalizing the typing experience with a warmer auditory feedback. Thus, although both switches feature different materials for their respective bottom housings, the differences in sound and feel are fundamentally rooted in the inherent properties of the materials themselves.
While the contrasting materials lead to different sound profiles and tactile sensations in each switch, they also indicate how the overall performance will vary depending on the combination of materials used. For instance, users will likely experience a more pronounced sound when using the V3 Crystal Pro due to the stiffer polycarbonate construction, resulting in a sharper auditory expression as they release a key. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange’s nylon housing excels at producing a warmer and more subtle sound, appealing to those seeking a quieter environment. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches often comes down to personal preference, as both materials—polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro and nylon in the MX Orange—successfully deliver distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, notable differences in actuation force stand out. The V3 Crystal Pro requires an actuation force of 48 grams, while the Cherry MX Orange has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, making the Akko switch the lighter option. This lighter force can allow for more comfortable typing during extended periods, which may appeal to those using their keyboard for long work sessions or gaming marathons. In terms of bottom out force, the Akko switch features a bottom out force of 60 grams, reflecting a medium resistance when fully pressed down. Conversely, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unspecified, leaving a gap in our ability to fully compare their performance in this regard. Overall, users seeking a more substantial feel might lean towards the MX Orange due to its heavier actuation force, while those preferring a lighter touch would likely favor the V3 Crystal Pro.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is 3.8 mm, whereas the Cherry MX Orange linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the V3 Crystal Pro the shorter option and the Cherry MX Orange the longer one. If you appreciate a more responsive feel to your key presses, the Akko switch may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which can lead to quicker actuation. Conversely, if you favor a more substantial typing experience with a deeper key press, the longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Orange might be more appealing. Overall, your preference for switch feel and responsiveness can guide you in selecting between these two options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch produces a bright and chirpy signature, noted for its unique acoustic quality that includes a slight squeak. This playful auditory feedback can create a lively typing environment, making the experience feel more engaging. In contrast, no specific sound characteristics are documented for the Cherry MX Orange switches, so their sound signature remains largely undefined in this comparison. However, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound of any switch can greatly depend on the keyboard frame and keycap material used, which means that both switches might offer a distinct auditory experience based on these factors.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro demonstrates a bouncy and polished sensation. The bouncy quality provides a spring-like feedback that makes each keystroke feel lively, almost rebounding under your fingers, while the polished finish suggests a smooth and refined typing experience. This results in reduced friction and an overall sleek key travel that many typists find appealing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches do not have specific tactile characteristics mentioned, leaving their feel relatively ambiguous.
In summary, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offers a distinctive chirpy sound and a lively, polished feel that can enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the characteristics of the Cherry MX Orange switches in terms of sound and feel remain less defined. Because of this, if you prefer a defined auditory and tactile experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the more suitable choice. However, both switches may cater to users looking for linear switch options, even if their performance attributes are not explicitly outlined for the Cherry MX Orange switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch, your personal preferences and intended usage will dictate the best choice for you. If you're looking for a switch that offers a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a bouncy and polished typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro is an excellent option. Its 60-gram bottom-out force strikes a balance that can enhance both typing and gaming experiences, making it a versatile choice for various applications. On the other hand, if you prioritize the nostalgic feel of a reissued classic with enhanced performance, the Cherry MX Orange switch may be more appealing. Its heritage and refinement make it a solid option for those who appreciate Cherry's craftsmanship, potentially offering a more subdued auditory profile compared to the vibrant character of the Crystal Pro. Ultimately, consider your priorities—whether it's sound, feel, or a blend of both—to make the switch that best complements your mechanical keyboard experience.
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