Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing preference and enhances your gaming experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Outemu Silver linear switches present two distinct yet appealing options. The V3 Crystal Pro is crafted from fully polycarbonate materials, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound that many users find delightful alongside its silky smooth typing sensation. Categorized as "Bouncy," "Chirpy," and "Polished," this switch appeals to those who appreciate a lively auditory feedback and a refined feel while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch, although without any specific standout features mentioned, is known for its responsiveness, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking quick actuation without the distraction of sound. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether it’s the sonic pleasure of the Crystal Pro or the speed-centric design of the Silver. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which sets them apart in terms of the auditory experience they offer. The polycarbonate material imbues both switches with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiff nature. This rigidity contributes to a clearer resonance, making both switches capable of producing bright sounds ideal for gaming or typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting diffusion, enhancing aesthetic appeal in setups where visual elements play a significant role. As a result, users of either switch can expect similar auditory outcomes when it comes to the sound produced from the top housing.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these two switches differ significantly, which will affect the overall sound profile and typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing identical to its top, continuing the theme of brightness and clarity in sound production. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver employs a nylon bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that may be regarded as warmer compared to that of the V3 Crystal Pro. Consequently, users may notice a more rounded auditory experience when bottoming out on the Outemu Silver, while the V3 Crystal Pro maintains a clearer sound throughout the key presses.
Overall, the differences between the housing materials contribute to the unique tonal qualities of each switch, particularly during the typing experience. While both switches benefit from the crispness provided by polycarbonate in the top housing, the V3 Crystal Pro's consistent use of polycarbonate across both the top and bottom maintains that brighter sound signature. In contrast, the Outemu Silver's combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom results in a richer, fuller sound when bottomed out, making it ideal for users who may prefer a more muted and rounded auditory feedback. Thus, while both share similarities in sound clarity at the activation point, their construction yields diverse tactile and auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we can observe distinct differences. The V3 Crystal Pro features an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom-out force of 60 grams, while the Outemu Silver has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams but a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams. This means that while the Akko switch requires a bit more force to activate a keystroke, it bottoms out with less resistance than the Silver switch. Consequently, the Outemu Silver offers a lighter feel for initial actuation but demands more force overall when fully depressed. If one prefers a lighter switch, the Outemu Silver would be the better choice for ease of typing or gaming sessions, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might lean toward the Akko V3 Crystal Pro due to its higher actuation requirement. Ultimately, these differences in weight cater to various typing preferences and endurance during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, the V3 Crystal Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference may influence your typing and gaming experience, as gamers often favor the quicker response times associated with shorter travel distances, making the V3 Crystal Pro a more appealing choice for those seeking speed. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial feel during key presses, the Outemu Silver's 4 mm distance may provide a more satisfying tactile experience. In summary, the V3 Crystal Pro is the shorter option, while the Outemu Silver is the longer one, catering to different preferences for key travel.
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 Silver 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is characterized by its bright and chirpy acoustic profile. This unique sound signature, complemented by its fully polycarbonate construction, gives the switch a distinctive, slightly squeaky tone that sets it apart from more conventional linear switches. The Outemu Silver, however, lacks specified details about its sound characteristics, which makes it difficult to compare directly. Keep in mind that the overall sound experience can also vary significantly based on the specific keyboard design and keycap material, so choices in those areas can influence your perception of sound regardless of the switch itself.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro excels with its bouncy and polished attributes. The bouncy sensation provides a spring-like feedback, giving it a lively responsiveness that enhances the typing experience. Alongside this responsiveness, the polished nature of the switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in less friction and comfortable key travel. This combination makes the typing experience not only enjoyable but also efficient. The Outemu Silver lacks any defined qualities in this area, leaving its tactile feedback and overall typing feel unspecified. Without clear attributes regarding its feel, it would be challenging to expect the same level of responsiveness or smoothness as provided by the V3 Crystal Pro.
In summary, if you seek a switch with a vibrant sound and a smooth, tactile feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro stands as a highly favorable option, offering both a chirpy acoustic signature and a lively typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Silver does not have well-documented attributes regarding its sound or feel, leaving it as an unknown variable in comparison. If you prefer a clear differentiation in your mechanical keyboard experience, the V3 Crystal Pro is likely the better choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your unique preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force with an engaging feedback experience, the V3 Crystal Pro is the better choice for you. Its fully polycarbonate construction not only provides a distinctive chirpy sound but also ensures a silky smooth, bouncy typing experience that many users find enjoyable, particularly during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you lean towards a firmer keystroke and prefer a slight extra weight in your switches, the Outemu Silver could be more suitable. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Silver switch might cater better to those who appreciate a more controlled keypress, although it lacks the auditory and tactile nuances offered by the V3 Crystal Pro. In essence, choose the V3 Crystal Pro for an exciting, lively feel and a brighter acoustic profile, whereas the Outemu Silver may be ideal for users who favor a more substantial, straightforward typing experience.
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