Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Green offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green does not have any unique features mentioned, but it is known for being a linear switch. While the V3 Crystal Pro may appeal to those looking for a bouncy, chirpy, and polished typing experience, the Silent Green switch could be preferred by those seeking a more traditional linear switch feel. 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Green switches, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Despite their similarities in housing material, the V3 Crystal Pro and Silent Green switches may differ in other aspects such as stem type and actuation force, potentially affecting the overall typing experience.
While both the V3 Crystal Pro and Silent Green switches boast polycarbonate top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities of this material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the housing material remains consistent between the two switches, the overall typing experience may vary based on the distribution of these material qualities within the switch itself.
Ultimately, the use of polycarbonate in both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Silent Green switches results in a clear and resonant sound profile that is favored by many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. This high-pitched and crisp sound, coupled with the aesthetic appeal of the translucent housing allowing for RGB lighting, makes these switches popular choices for those seeking a tactile and visually pleasing typing experience. Whether one prefers the V3 Crystal Pro's design or the Silent Green's features may come down to personal preference or specific typing preferences such as actuation force and key feel.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, both have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to fully press a key. However, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Green's 45 grams. This means that the Akko V3 Crystal Pro requires a slightly firmer push to register a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Outemu Silent Green may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro for its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Silent Green linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, catering to those who prioritize quick response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Akko V3 for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Outemu Silent Green with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Silent Green 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 sound profile with its chirpy sound and a smooth typing experience due to its polycarbonate construction. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch lacks specific information regarding its sound and feel. However, based on the available information, the V3 Crystal Pro seems to provide a more defined and detailed typing experience with its bouncy and polished feel. If you are looking for a switch with a distinct sound and smooth feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro would be a great option to consider. However, without further information on the Silent Green switch, it may be challenging to make a direct comparison. Regardless, both switches are linear, meaning they will provide a similar overall typing experience in terms of actuation force and key travel. Ultimately, personal preference and the specific features you are looking for in a switch will determine which option is best for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a bright and chirpy sound signature and a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a switch with a bouncy and polished feel, the Silent Green may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, so your decision should come down to which sound and feel characteristics align best with your typing preferences.