Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Haimu Orange Sea present distinct options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro switches are celebrated for their fully polycarbonate construction, which not only results in a bright and chirpy sound profile but also contributes to a delightfully smooth typing experience that many users find appealing. This craftsmanship delivers a bouncy, polished feel that may suit those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback along with their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are lauded for their impeccably smooth operation combined with a neutral sound signature, making them an excellent choice for users who prefer a quieter typing environment without sacrificing performance. While both switches cater to linear switch fans, their unique characteristics in sound, feel, and overall typing experience can cater to different 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Haimu Orange Sea both feature polycarbonate for their top housings, which provides them with a notably sharp, high-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This similarity in materials allows both switches to excel in delivering clear and resonant audio feedback during typing. Polycarbonate's rigidity contributes to enhanced sound clarity, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a more precise auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, as it allows light to shine through beautifully, creating an aesthetically pleasing effect for users who value visual appeal in their keyboards.
In contrast, the materials used for the bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro and the Orange Sea differ significantly. The V3 Crystal Pro is constructed with polycarbonate, which continues to provide a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. This choice in material reinforces the overall clarity and sharpness experienced while typing. On the other hand, the Orange Sea utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a rounder sound experience, effectively absorbing more noise and offering a contrasting tactile feel when compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. This divergence means that while the top housings of both switches resonate similarly, the bottom housings create distinct auditory experiences, affecting how each switch responds both acoustically and tactically upon keystrokes.
Ultimately, the integrated materials in the two switches lead to varying overall sound profiles that cater to different preferences among users. For the V3 Crystal Pro, the consistent use of polycarbonate across both housings ensures a sharp and coherent auditory experience, while the Haimu Orange Sea, with its nylon bottom, invites those who prefer a softer and deeper typing sound. Thus, even with the similarities in top housing materials, the contrasting bottom housings create diversified outcomes, inviting users to choose a switch that aligns with their desired auditory feedback and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, significant differences become evident. The V3 Crystal Pro features an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Orange Sea switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more suitable choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. As a result, users who favor lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions might find the Haimu Orange Sea more appealing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, may attract users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Overall, while both switches provide distinct experiences based on their respective weights, the V3 Crystal Pro is the heavier option, and the Orange Sea is the lighter one.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, the V3 Crystal Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Orange Sea has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro provides a deeper key press, which might be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Orange Sea, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to gamers looking for faster response times and quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference: if you favor a more pronounced depth, the V3 Crystal Pro would be the better option, whereas if you lean towards responsiveness, the Haimu Orange Sea would be suitable.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches have a distinct and bright profile, characterized by a chirpy acoustic signature. This chirp adds a unique auditory dimension to the typing experience, providing a lively auditory feedback that can be quite engaging. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches feature a neutral sound signature, which means they deliver a more subdued and balanced auditory experience that won’t draw attention to itself. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound produced by either switch can still be influenced by factors such as the specific keyboard they are mounted on and the type of keycaps used.
Regarding the feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switches are praised for their bouncy and polished characteristics. The bouncy nature gives these switches a spring-like feedback, making typing not just comfortable but also responsive and engaging, with a delightful rebound as your fingers press down. Simultaneously, their polished finish ensures a smooth and refined key travel, thanks to the quality of the materials and possibly some factory lubing involved. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switches also provide an impeccably smooth typing experience, although there are no additional descriptors available to highlight specific tactile characteristics like bounce or surface texture.
In summary, if you're looking for a mechanical switch that combines a vibrant sound with a playful and responsive feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro would be a fitting choice. Its chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel make it quite unique. Conversely, if you prefer a more understated auditory experience alongside that smooth typing sensation, the Haimu Orange Sea switches would serve you well, providing a sense of tranquility with their neutral sound. While both switches offer smooth typing experiences, the distinct differences in sound and bounce make them appealing for different typing preferences, ultimately allowing newcomers to pick a switch that resonates with their personal style.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, your choice should depend on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing force. If you enjoy a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, a lively and bouncy feel, and a unique chirpy sound signature, then the V3 Crystal Pro will be a fantastic fit for you. Its fully polycarbonate construction not only contributes to a distinctive sound but also ensures a silky smooth typing experience, making it ideal for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams and a more neutral sound profile, the Haimu Orange Sea is the way to go. Its impeccably smooth typing experience can be particularly advantageous for long typing sessions, offering comfort and ease without any auditory distraction. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your tactile preferences and whether you value a more pronounced auditory feedback or a subtle typing experience.
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