Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Gold both present unique characteristics to consider, catering to different typing preferences and experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, is celebrated for its fully polycarbonate construction, which contributes to its distinctive bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a silky smooth typing experience. With its bouncy and polished feel, this switch is ideal for users who enjoy a quiet yet responsive keypress that glides effortlessly across the keyboard. In contrast, the Outemu Gold, being a clicky switch, typically offers a different tactile experience with audible feedback that many typists find satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate hearing and feeling each keystroke. While the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizes a smooth and noise-reduced experience, the Outemu Gold caters to users seeking a more pronounced typing sensation. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Outemu Gold switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influence their acoustic properties. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This similarity enhances the switch's auditory feedback, making it more resonant and lively during use. The translucence of polycarbonate also provides an appealing visual aspect, particularly for users who enjoy RGB lighting, as the light can easily pass through the clear housings, creating a stunning illumination effect that enhances the aesthetic experience of typing or gaming.
However, the bottom housing materials of the two switches contrast sharply and contribute differently to the overall sound profile. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which further promotes a bright and clear sound. This choice maintains a consistent acoustic quality throughout the entire switch, contributing to a more unified typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Gold employs nylon as its bottom housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer and more sound-absorbing characteristics. This distinction means that while the top housings promote brightness, the bottom housings create a balance, with the Outemu Gold delivering a rounded sound and feel that contrasts the sharper tone provided by the V3 Crystal Pro.
When comparing all aspects of both switches, it becomes clear that their materials create a unique combination of auditory experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro's use of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing leads to a consistent sound profile, where the high-pitched clarity dominates. Conversely, the Outemu Gold offers a mix of crispness from its polycarbonate top housing and a significant richness from its nylon bottom housing, leading to two distinct typing experiences. Ultimately, while they share similarities in their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials allows users to choose between a consistent, bright sound and a complementary, fuller auditory experience, depending on their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The V3 Crystal Pro requires an actuation force of 48 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Outemu Gold, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, both switches share the same measurement at 60 grams. Consequently, users looking for a lighter typing experience may find the Outemu Gold more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate keystrokes. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing may gravitate towards the V3 Crystal Pro due to its higher actuation force. Overall, the choice between the two switches hinges on whether an individual prioritizes a lighter or heavier keystroke response in their typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, we find that the V3 Crystal Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Gold features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro offers a more responsive feel, catering to gamers who favor quicker key presses, whereas the Outemu Gold provides a more substantial depth that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. The difference in travel distance suggests that those who lean towards a lighter touch might gravitate towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, while users who enjoy a more pronounced key press would likely favor the Outemu Gold. In summary, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a shorter travel distance compared to the longer travel of the Outemu Gold switch.
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 Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10 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 linear switch is characterized by its bright and chirpy audio profile, which adds a unique and distinct character to each keystroke. This chirpy sound is defined by a slight squeak, contributing to a lively acoustic experience that many typists find enjoyable. In contrast, the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks a specific sound signature description, so it's difficult to provide a direct comparison in terms of auditory feedback. However, it's important to remember that the sound produced by any switch can still be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and the materials used for keycaps, which could potentially create a unique acoustical experience for the Outemu Gold.
In the realm of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch excels in delivering an engaging typing experience, featuring a bouncy mechanism that offers elastic feedback with each press. This not only provides a satisfying rebound but also enhances overall typing enjoyment. Additionally, its polished construction results in a remarkably smooth key travel, reducing friction for a refined feel. Conversely, the Outemu Gold switch does not have any specific descriptive qualities related to its feel, leaving an incomplete picture for comparison. Therefore, typists familiar with clicky switches may find themselves catering their tactile preferences elsewhere when it comes to the Gold.
In summary, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch brings a distinct chirpy sound and a lively, ultra-smooth feel to the table, making it a well-rounded choice for typists seeking an engaging experience. In contrast, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch may provide a satisfying auditory feedback typical of clicky switches, the lack of clear descriptions about its sound and feel leaves many aspects unknown. Ultimately, if you prefer a lively typing experience with both acoustic and tactile satisfaction, the V3 Crystal Pro is your best bet, while the Outemu Gold may suit those who enjoy the traditional clicky experience despite the uncertainties surrounding its performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're seeking a switch that delivers a unique auditory experience and a notably smooth and bouncy feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is an excellent choice. Its fully polycarbonate construction provides a bright, chirpy sound that can enhance your typing sessions, making it ideal if you enjoy a lively and engaging atmosphere while you work or play. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more straightforward option without the added acoustic flair, the Outemu Gold clicky switch may suit your needs better. Although it doesn't have the distinctive sound or tactile feedback that sets the Crystal Pro apart, its 60g bottom-out force is still a comfortable medium weight that works well for general typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most in a switch—whether it's a vibrant sound and tactile feedback or a more subdued, utilitarian feel.
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