Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze offer unique experiences for different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro features linear switches with a fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a bouncy and chirpy sound profile along with a polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switches are clicky and offer a distinct tactile feedback. While the Crystal Pro switches provide a smooth typing experience, the Spring Breeze switches offer a satisfying click with each key press. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze, we can see that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which promotes a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze features a nylon top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
While the V3 Crystal Pro and the Spring Breeze may differ in their housing materials, they both offer distinct advantages. The polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro is ideal for users who prioritize a clear and resonant sound profile, as well as those who enjoy RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Spring Breeze caters to those who prefer a deeper and fuller sound while typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a unique typing experience that may appeal to a different set of users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Outemu Spring Breeze will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide a unique typing experience that is sure to satisfy a range of users. Ultimately, the decision will depend on the individual user's priorities and preferences when it comes to housing materials and sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the V3 Crystal Pro requires a slightly heavier touch with its 48 grams actuation force and 60 grams bottom out force, while the Spring Breeze offers a lighter touch with 40 grams actuation force and 55 grams bottom out force. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Spring Breeze allows for a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a balanced typing experience for most users.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Spring Breeze has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, even small variations in travel distance can affect the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro with the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Spring Breeze with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, and the choice between them depends on personal preference.
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 Spring Breeze 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, it's clear that the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience with its chirpy sound signature and bouncy, polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have as much information available on its sound and feel qualities. If you enjoy a switch with a bright sound and smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro would be a great option to consider. While the specifics of the Spring Breeze switch are unknown, it's worth noting that individual preferences can vary, so trying out different switches firsthand is always recommended to find the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that may appeal to different users, so it's important to consider your personal preferences when deciding between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound signature, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. The fully polycarbonate construction of the Crystal Pro switches not only influences their sound but also provides a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and are looking for a lively, bouncy feel with smooth key travel, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch might be the one for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
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