Outemu Crystal vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, it is clear that both offer unique typing experiences with distinct characteristics. The Crystal switches provide a smooth and elastic feel with a medium-light weight, resulting in a linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches offer a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making typing a delightful experience for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Crystal switches are known for their unique feel and sound, the Lavender Purple Pro switches stand out for their tactile feedback and distinct sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's relatively stiff nature. This attribute makes them ideal choices for switches that prioritize clarity and resonance in sound production. Additionally, being translucent, polycarbonate is perfect for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. The similarity in top housing material ensures that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetic features from both switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sound profile throughout the key press. In contrast, the Lavender Purple Pro opts for a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This variation in bottom housing material gives each switch a distinct feel and sound signature, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
When considering the overall performance of a switch, it's essential to take into account the impact of both the top and bottom housings on the typing experience. The qualities of the housing material will influence not only the sound produced when pressing a key but also the feel of the switch throughout the typing process. While the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. By understanding the characteristics of each housing material, users can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound profile, key feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke and the pressure required to bottom out the keys. The lighter weight of these switches makes them ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, whether for long typing sessions at work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, both the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro would provide a medium-light typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Crystal switch. A 0.2 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Crystal switch with a slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique, chirpy sound profile with a high-pitched tone that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a bouncy and snappy feel, with an accentuated tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches offer a unique typing experience in terms of feel, catering to those who prefer different levels of tactility and feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel that appeal to different preferences. While the Crystal switch provides a chirpy, high-pitched sound profile and a polished feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and snappy feel. Both switches are great options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience, with the choice between them depending on individual sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile, a satisfying tactile bump, and a bouncy, snappy feel with a medium-light bottom out force, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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