Outemu Crystal vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro

Overview

When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, one can see distinct differences in their typing experiences. The Crystal switches offer a unique, linear feel with a medium-light weight that provides an elastic sensation while typing. With a neutral sound profile, typing on the Crystals results in a polished and somewhat high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches feature a snappy sound signature thanks to their long pole design, adding a lively and crisp quality to keystrokes. They also offer a smooth actuation for a pleasing tactile experience. While both switches have their own appeal, whether it be the chirpy and high-pitched nature of the Outemu Crystals or the bouncy, clacky, and creamy characteristics of the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches, each switch has its own unique attributes that cater 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

Outemu Crystal Linear

Akko V3 Piano Pro Linear

$3.40 per 10

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Piano Pro feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro combines a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, the Crystal's polycarbonate housing provides a clearer and more resonant sound, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound.

Although the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Piano Pro use different housing materials, they both showcase unique sound characteristics based on the properties of the materials utilized. The Crystal's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal contributes to its clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro creates a rounder sound. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience by offering distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.

In terms of design and functionality, the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Piano Pro play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Crystal not only creates a unique sound profile but also allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the V3 Piano Pro absorbs more sound, resulting in a quieter and more muted typing experience. While the housing materials of these switches differ in stiffness and sound absorption properties, both the Crystal and the V3 Piano Pro offer a range of sound profiles to cater to various preferences and typing styles.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams, making them medium-light switches. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required for key presses on both switches. The weight of a switch can impact typing comfort and endurance, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial typing experience. In this case, both the Crystal and V3 Piano Pro switches offer a balanced actuation and bottom out force, catering to a wide range of preferences for typing and gaming enthusiasts.

Travel distance

The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Crystal switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro switch. A 0.5 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Outemu Crystal switch. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the slight variation in travel distance may cater to different preferences among users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, giving it a distinct auditory signature. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized by a clacky and resonant sound, providing a crisp and immersive typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Crystal focusing on a neutral profile and the V3 Piano Pro offering a livelier, snappier sound.

Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as having a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, and silky sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and a buttery smooth keystroke feel. Both switches excel in providing a tactile experience that enhances typing comfort, with the Crystal focusing on a sleek finish and the V3 Piano Pro offering a more dynamic and elastic feedback.

Considering all the information available, it is evident that the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched sound with a polished typing feel, while the V3 Piano Pro switch provides a clacky and resonant sound with a bouncy, creamy, and silky typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, with users likely to achieve similar results in terms of overall performance and comfort, depending on their personal preferences for sound and feel.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and keyboard sound. If you prefer a unique, linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Crystal may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy sound signature with a smooth actuation and a lively, crisp quality to each keystroke, the V3 Piano Pro could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Choose wisely to ensure a satisfying keyboarding experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

Akko V3 Piano Pro Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more