HMX Deep Navy vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches tailored to different preferences, the HMX Deep Navy and Akko V3 Silver Pro stand out as noteworthy options, both categorized as linear switches yet offering distinct experiences. The HMX Deep Navy is revered for its full nylon construction and rich, sharp sound profile, providing a tactile response that feels luxurious with each keystroke, thanks to its silky smooth Ly stem. This switch is ideal for typists and casual users who enjoy a more auditory feedback alongside a smooth feel. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro caters specifically to gamers, featuring a light actuation force and shortened travel distance that enables rapid responses—crucial for gaining a competitive edge. With its bassy sound profile and creamy, feathery keystrokes, the V3 Silver Pro is designed to enhance gaming performance without sacrificing auditory satisfaction. While both switches offer appealing qualities, they cater to differing user needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, striking differences emerge in their top housings. The Deep Navy utilizes a nylon top housing, a material known for its softer quality, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon's ability to absorb sound, which contributes to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which is notably stiffer and allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Here, the translucency of polycarbonate also plays an aesthetic role, making it especially compatible with RGB lighting, thereby enhancing its visual appeal. Consequently, users looking for deeper tones may prefer the Deep Navy, while those seeking clarity and brightness in sound might opt for the V3 Silver Pro.
Moving to the bottom housings of both switches, we find a significant similarity. Both the Deep Navy and the V3 Silver Pro feature nylon as their bottom housing material. This choice ensures that both switches will deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottomed out. Nylon's inherent properties, such as sound absorption, contribute to a more comprehensive auditory experience, resulting in a consistent and well-rounded sound regardless of which switch is being pressed. This commonality in their bottom housing means that users can expect a similar tactile and acoustic feedback on key presses, creating cohesion in both models even when their top housings are distinct.
The divergence in the top housing materials creates a unique dynamic in the overall typist experience of each switch. While the nylon bottom of both switches provides a familiar feel and sound when the keys are pressed down, the sound upon release will vary significantly due to the differing materials used in the top housings. The Deep Navy, with its nylon top, will produce a sonically warmer and less resonant tone compared to the crisper snap-like quality found in the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top. This split between the bottom and top housing qualities means that the overall typing experience with each switch is a nuanced blend of these materials, combining for a distinctive yet enjoyable interaction, tailored to various preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch present an interesting comparison as they share the same specifications for both actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing them as relatively light options. This similarity means that users can expect comparable tactile feedback and typing experiences from both switches—ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. The matching specifications suggest that both switches would provide similar results in terms of performance and feel, making either choice suitable for users seeking a comfortable and less strenuous experience. Given their identical weights, neither switch can be deemed heavier or lighter than the other, allowing users to confidently select either option based on brand preference or aesthetic.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it's clear that they have different characteristics that cater to varying preferences. The Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Silver Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the V3 Silver Pro the more responsive option, ideal for gamers seeking quicker key actuation and faster response times. In contrast, the Deep Navy offers a slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more substantial and deliberate feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, if you prefer a snappier experience, the V3 Silver Pro may be the better choice, while the Deep Navy would be suitable for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is characterized by its rich and sharp tonal quality, thanks to its full nylon construction. Users can expect a distinct auditory experience that enhances the overall typing or gaming engagement. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when activated, generating a pleasing bassy tone that appeals to gamers and typists alike. While both switches provide unique auditory characteristics, the Deep Navy’s deeper sound might resonate more with those who prefer a robust auditory feedback, while the V3 Silver Pro’s higher pitch will stand out for users valuing clarity in sound.
When considering the feel, the Deep Navy switch offers a silky smoothness with each keystroke, allowing for a seamless typing experience. This smooth operation makes it comfortable for prolonged use without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is crafted for optimal functionality, featuring an easy-to-press design that demands minimal effort for activation. The combination of light actuation force, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky qualities implies an indulgent typing experience, where every keystroke feels effortless and satisfying. While both switches aim for comfort and smoothness in operation, the Deep Navy leans more toward a luxurious glide, while the V3 Silver Pro emphasizes responsiveness and lightness.
In summary, both the HMX Deep Navy and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches deliver impressive auditory and tactile experiences, each with its unique qualities. The Deep Navy switch is perfect for those who enjoy a deeper sound and a luxurious feel, while the V3 Silver Pro caters to gamers looking for immediate responsiveness and light activation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences; however, each offers the potential for a fulfilling mechanical typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing or gaming preferences. If you're seeking a rich, bassy sound with a silky and smooth typing experience, the Deep Navy switches would serve you well, particularly if you appreciate a more rounded auditory feedback and a luxurious feel while typing. Their nylon construction and thoughtful design provide a reassuring tactile experience that many find pleasurable for both long typing sessions and casual use. Conversely, if you are a gamer or someone who prioritizes speed and precision, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches might be your best bet. With their lightweight actuation force and shorter travel distance, these switches are engineered for high-speed performance, making them ideal for precise keystrokes where every millisecond counts. Their high-pitched sound adds a crispness that complements the quick feedback you need when gaming. Therefore, if you value speedy responsiveness and comfortable typing with minimal effort, the V3 is clearly the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you lean towards comfort and sound quality or speed and agility in your keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
