Outemu Crystal vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer distinct advantages for different user preferences. The Outemu Crystal provides a unique linear typing experience with its medium-light weight and elastic feel, resulting in a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are tailored specifically for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes, pleasing bassy sound, light actuation force, and shortened travel distance for increased speed. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Crystal and the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that produces clear and resonant sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches equipped with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. While both switches share similar top housing materials, their differences lie in the bottom housing material.
The Outemu Crystal features a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to the sharp, high-pitched sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate. This material adds to the clear and resonant sound produced by the switch, complementing the qualities of the top housing. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. These differences in bottom housing material impact the overall sound and feel of each switch.
The split between top and bottom housing materials in a switch affects the sound and feel experienced when typing. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as the impact on bottom-out sound and feel, are noticeable when pressing down on a key. In comparison, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This split allows for a combination of qualities from both housing materials to contribute to the overall typing experience, providing a unique feel and sound profile for each switch.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a slightly higher actuation and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch. The Crystal requires 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro only needs 40 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter switch overall. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the V3 Silver Pro would be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing, the Outemu Crystal would provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we see that the Crystal has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Silver Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Crystal. The traditional travel distance for switches is 4 mm, so the Crystal falls in line with that standard. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro offers a shallower travel distance of 3.3 mm, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between a shorter or longer travel distance comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch also produces a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed, which can be pleasing to the ears of gamers. Ultimately, the sound of the switch is subjective and can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, offering a light actuation force and a buttery typing sensation. These qualities make typing on the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, while both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch have their unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, their differences can provide a varied typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the chirpy and high-pitched sound of the Crystal switch or the smooth and buttery feel of the Silver Pro switch, both options offer quality linear switches that can enhance your typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a unique typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and neutral sound profile, the Crystal may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for switches engineered for speed and precision with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, the V3 Silver Pro would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences, and intended usage. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different needs, so weigh your options carefully before making a choice.
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