Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offer distinct experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique combination of bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue does not have a specific standout feature mentioned but falls under the clicky switch category. While the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Milk Blue does not have a specific categorization. Choosing between these two switches depends on whether you prefer a linear switch with a distinct sound profile and smooth feel, or a clicky switch that may offer a different typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Milk Blue, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows for vibrant light transmission. However, the V3 Crystal Pro also includes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Milk Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing. This results in the V3 Crystal Pro providing a consistent sharp sound profile throughout the keystroke, whereas the Milk Blue offers a deeper and fuller sound as a result of the softer nylon material absorbing more sound.
In terms of sound profile, the V3 Crystal Pro and the Milk Blue switches differ in their housing materials' impact on the typing experience. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the presence of a polycarbonate bottom housing in the V3 Crystal Pro enhances the overall sharpness and clarity of the sound. Conversely, the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded typing experience. This emphasizes the importance of housing materials in determining the sound and feel of a switch, with polycarbonate offering a crisper sound and nylon providing a more muffled and subdued sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Milk Blue play a significant role in defining the sound profiles of these switches. While both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the V3 Crystal Pro stands out with the addition of a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and clearer sound profile throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, offering a different typing experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound can help users choose a switch that best suits their preferences, whether they prefer a sharp and resonant sound like the V3 Crystal Pro or a deeper and fuller sound like the Milk Blue.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. The V3 Crystal Pro is slightly lighter overall, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue could be a concern. On the other hand, the Milk Blue's actuation force may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro has a shorter distance of 3.8 mm, while the Milk Blue has a slightly longer distance of 4 mm. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the Milk Blue's longer travel distance provides a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the keys, appealing to those who prefer a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference; if you prioritize responsiveness, the V3 Crystal Pro is the way to go, but if you prefer a more pronounced keypress, the Outemu Milk Blue may be the better option.
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 Milk Blue 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
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique combination of a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. The switch is described as bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like feedback and a refined, smooth key travel. On the other hand, not much information is available about the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the provided information, it can be inferred that it may have a different sound profile and feeling compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience desired.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it all comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique acoustic signature and are drawn to a bouncy and polished feel, then the Milk Blue switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider these factors carefully and try out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences.
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