Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Purple stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch known for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique sound and feel that is described as bouncy, chirpy, and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience compared to its linear counterpart. While the Purple switch does not have any particular standout feature mentioned, it is known for its tactile feedback without any audible clicks. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
2.00 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
One key difference between the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Purple switches is the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the V3 Crystal Pro versus the nylon bottom housing of the Purple. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, nylon, used in the bottom housing of the Purple, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone overall. This contrast in housing materials highlights how different plastics can impact the sound and feel of a mechanical switch.
Another point of comparison between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Purple switches is the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile when compared to the softer nylon bottom housing of the Purple. While the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Understanding how these materials influence the typing experience can help users choose the switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Purple switches, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience. Whether it's the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile of the V3 Crystal Pro with its polycarbonate housing, or the deeper, fuller sound profile of the Purple with its nylon housing, users can tailor their switch choice to suit their preferences. Ultimately, understanding the impact of housing materials on sound and feel can help users make an informed decision when selecting a mechanical switch for their keyboard.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Outemu Purple tactile switch, which requires 50 grams to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro is heavier at 60 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Purple switch. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a more consistent typing experience with its defined actuation and bottom out forces, while the Purple switch may provide a more tactile typing feel due to its tactile feedback. In terms of weight, the V3 Crystal Pro may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while the Purple switch might be favored by users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. The V3 Crystal Pro falls on the shorter side of the traditional travel distances, making it a favorable choice for those looking for a fast and responsive typing experience, especially gamers seeking quick response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, providing a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Purple 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
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique auditory experience with its chirpy sound profile and a smooth typing feel that is both bouncy and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound and feel qualities are unknown. While the sound and feel of a switch are subjective and can vary depending on personal preference and other factors, it is important to consider these qualities when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, if you enjoy the bright and chirpy sound and silky smooth feel of the V3 Crystal Pro, you are likely to get similar results in terms of sound and feel with this switch compared to the Outemu Purple tactile switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, then the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an unknown bottom out force and are looking for a switch with unique characteristics, you may want to consider the Outemu Purple tactile switch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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