Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two linear switch options that offer distinct characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro features a fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a quieter typing experience compared to the classic MX Red switch, maintaining a slightly heftier feel while operating silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which lends itself to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate helps to create a clear and resonant sound, especially when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
The contrasting materials of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housing of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Cherry MX Silent Red switches showcase unique characteristics in sound production. While polycarbonate creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, nylon elicits a deeper and fuller tone. The choice between the two housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and feel when typing. However, both materials offer durability and functionality in their respective switches, providing a solid foundation for keypresses.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Cherry MX Silent Red switches, both ultimately aim to enhance the overall typing experience. Whether it's the sharper, crisper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller tones of nylon, users can expect a high-quality feel when using either switch. As such, while the choice of housing material may impact the sound and feel of the switch, the end result is a satisfying typing experience in both cases.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force become evident. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the MX Silent Red's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the MX Silent Red's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the V3 Crystal Pro slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out as well. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly firmer and more tactile feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the V3 Crystal Pro being better suited for those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly longer than the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users looking for faster response times. Gamers may particularly appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two may not be noticeable to the average user, as they both offer a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the slight variation in travel distance.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 offers a chirpy and unique acoustic signature, adding a bit of character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch provides a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, ensuring a quieter environment for those who prefer less noise. While the V3 Crystal Pro delivers a more distinct and lively sound, the MX Silent Red excels in providing a smoother and quieter typing experience, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, with a spring-like feedback sensation and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch provides a textured feel, offering noticeable friction when pressed. The V3 Crystal Pro's bouncy and polished attributes contribute to a lively and refined typing experience, while the MX Silent Red's textured feel may appeal to users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. Both switches offer a distinctive tactile feel that can enhance your typing comfort and efficiency.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you enjoy a chirpy and bouncy typing experience with a bright sound signature, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted and thocky sound profile with a textured key feel, the MX Silent Red switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent performance and reliability, and choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, opt for the V3 Crystal Pro. On the other hand, if you value a significantly quieter sound profile ideal for noise-sensitive environments, the MX Silent Red is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a bouncy and polished feel or a textured feel when typing. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and environment.
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