Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both of which are linear switches. The V3 Crystal Pro is renowned for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique sound and feel that is both bright and chirpy. With a smooth typing experience, this switch is often appreciated for its bouncy and polished characteristics. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean remains a mystery in terms of standout features but is known for its silent operation. While each switch offers distinct advantages, such as the Crystal Pro's vibrant sound and the Silent Ocean's quiet performance, it is essential to explore further beyond these generalities to determine which switch suits your preferences and typing style best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Ocean, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. However, the Silent Ocean stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon material absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound with each key press.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, the difference in their bottom housing materials leads to varying sound profiles and typing experiences. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, emphasizing the sharpness and crispness of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights the importance of considering the impact of both top and bottom housing on the overall typing experience.
In terms of design and functionality, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Ocean allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. However, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon for the bottom housing material ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Those seeking a sharper and crisper typing experience may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing, while individuals looking for a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force with 48 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Ocean is heavier with 65 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of force required for actuation and bottoming out.
The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches means that users may experience a slightly lighter feel when typing on the V3 Crystal Pro compared to the Silent Ocean. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the V3 Crystal Pro for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may favor the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Ocean for a more substantial typing experience. 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 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different advantages based on personal preference, with the V3 Crystal Pro being the shorter option and the Silent Ocean offering a bit more travel distance for those seeking it.
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 Ocean 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
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a distinctive bright and chirpy sound profile, making it stand out in terms of acoustics. This unique sound is complemented by a silky smooth typing experience, thanks to the fully polycarbonate construction of the switches. In comparison, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the V3 Crystal Pro is known for its bouncy and polished qualities. The bouncy nature of these switches provides a spring-like feedback, offering a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The polished finish creates a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring a sleek key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Silent Ocean linear switch is also unknown, making it challenging to contrast with the V3 Crystal Pro in this aspect.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is characterized by its chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, making it a popular choice for those looking for a unique acoustic experience and smooth typing feedback. While the qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch remain unknown, based on the available information, it is likely that users can expect a similar level of smoothness in typing experience but may not have the same chirpy sound signature. Ultimately, individual preferences and typing preferences will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for each user.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you'll want to consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a bright, chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro is the way to go. Additionally, if you appreciate a bouncy and polished feel with spring-like feedback and smooth key travel, the V3 Crystal Pro is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a silent typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force.
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