Outemu Crystal vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal and Akko V3 Crystal Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Outemu Crystal switches offer a unique linear typing experience with their elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches are known for their fully polycarbonate construction, giving them a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro utilize polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings of their switches. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, as polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to both switches.
While both switches share the same housing material, the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro differ in their overall design and construction. The Outemu Crystal may have a unique design or layout that sets it apart from the V3 Crystal Pro, potentially influencing the typing experience and sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro might feature additional customization options or special features that enhance its overall performance.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate housing, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile, making them suitable options for users who prioritize sound quality and aesthetics in their mechanical keyboards. Whether you opt for the Outemu Crystal or the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, you can expect a similar level of performance and a satisfying typing experience with the help of their polycarbonate housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Outemu Crystal is the lighter option. The Outemu Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, providing a balance between typing comfort and typing feedback. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Outemu Crystal may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and individual preference when selecting a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches, making them ideal for quick and responsive typing. Gamers may prefer the Akko V3 Crystal Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during gameplay. However, those who prefer a deeper keypress may find the Outemu Crystal switch more satisfying with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a modern and efficient typing experience, with the main difference being the slight variation in travel distance.
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 Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique combination of a chirpy and high-pitched profile, giving it a distinct acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch also has a chirpy sound, but features a brighter and more upbeat tone due to its fully polycarbonate construction. Both switches provide a different auditory experience, so the choice between them would depend on personal preference and the accompanying keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Crystal switch is known for its polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy sensation with a spring-like feedback, making the keys feel lively and responsive. Again, the decision between the two switches would come down to individual preference in terms of typing feel and feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal switch provides a more elastic type feel with a neutral sound profile, the Crystal Pro switch stands out with its polycarbonate construction, offering a chirpy sound and silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, users can expect to get similar results in terms of typing efficiency and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Crystal linear switch or the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, you should take into account the subtle differences in bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a brighter and chirpier sound signature with a silky smooth typing feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different tastes, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when making your decision.
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