Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent White 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 Silent White both offer a linear typing experience, but with their own unique characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent White switch doesn't have any standout features mentioned. While the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Silent White switch does not have any specific categories associated with it. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent White lies in the materials used for their bottom housing. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This distinction in materials showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound signature of a keyboard switch.
In terms of their top housing, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Silent White utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This commonality suggests that both switches will produce similar sound characteristics when it comes to the release of a key. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While the bottom housing may play a larger role in the overall sound profile, the consistency in the top housing material ensures that both switches will provide a familiar typing experience in terms of sound texture and pitch.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent White may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top and bottom housing combination offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Silent White's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Depending on whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound or a duller and rounder sound, each switch has its own unique characteristics that can cater to different typing preferences. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent sound experience in terms of key release, making them both solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of resistance when fully pressed. However, the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Silent White's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier to press down initially. Despite this difference, both switches fall within the medium weight category, offering a balanced typing experience for users who prefer a moderate level of force in their switches. In terms of weight preference, individuals who enjoy a lighter touch may find the Silent White more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a reliable and consistent typing feel, catering to different preferences based on actuation and bottom out force variations.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Silent White has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. Shorter travel distances are favored by gamers for quicker response times, while longer travel distances provide a more satisfying key press experience for some users. Both switches offer a different feel due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between the two would come down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize speed or a more tactile typing experience.
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 White 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 is known for its bright and chirpy sound signature, offering a unique typing experience with a smooth feel. The polycarbonate construction of the V3 Crystal Pro switch contributes to its bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch does not have any specific descriptions available for its sound or feel characteristics. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard platform and keycaps used. Ultimately, if the sound and feel qualities are similar between the V3 Crystal Pro and Silent White switches, users can expect to achieve comparable results in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you 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 prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force but are looking for a silent option, the Outemu Silent White might be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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