Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade 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 Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch present unique options to meet your typing preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, making it a great choice for those who prefer a bouncy and polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offers a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, thanks to its factory-lubed switches and unique translucent jade yellow housing, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a punchy tactile bump. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, we can see that the V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade features nylon for both its top and bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Silent Yellow Jade provide unique sound profiles based on their respective polycarbonate and nylon housings. The polycarbonate housing in the V3 Crystal Pro creates a more translucent appearance, perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon housing in the Silent Yellow Jade offers a classic switch housing material that enhances the overall typing experience with a deeper sound profile. While the materials may differ, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to the preferences of individual users.
The impact of the housing material on the overall typing experience is noticeable in both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade. The differences in sound profile, feel, and aesthetics between polycarbonate and nylon housing can be felt when typing on these switches. The top housing influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, the actuation force of the V3 Crystal Pro is slightly lighter at 48 grams compared to the 50 grams required for the Silent Yellow Jade. Both switches have a medium actuation force, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro is also lighter at 60 grams, while the Silent Yellow Jade requires a heavier 65 grams to bottom out. This means that the Silent Yellow Jade provides a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, while those who prefer a heavier touch may opt for the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Silent Yellow Jade has a shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. The V3 Crystal Pro falls closer to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Silent Yellow Jade is on the shallower end at 3.3 mm. Gamers seeking faster response times may lean towards the Silent Yellow Jade with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press might opt for the V3 Crystal Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their respective travel distances, so users can expect different results depending on their preferences.
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 Yellow Jade 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 V3 Crystal Pro linear switch's signature bright and chirpy sound, coupled with a silky smooth typing experience, makes it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a unique auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offers a quieter typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound and a punchy tactile bump, making it a great option for those who prefer a more subdued but still tactile typing feel. When comparing the sound qualities, the V3 Crystal Pro is characterized by its chirpy sound, while the Silent Yellow Jade's sound profile is not explicitly mentioned. In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is described as bouncy and polished, providing a lively and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the feel of the Silent Yellow Jade switch is not specified, leaving room for exploration by users. While both switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. Experimenting with different switches and finding the one that best suits your typing style and preferences will ultimately lead to a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, you should weigh your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound and a punchy tactile bump, the Silent Yellow Jade might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you personally prefer, whether it be bouncy and polished or quiet with a tactile bump.
Mentioned in this article
