Huano Elf vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Elf and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both stand out as compelling options for different types of users. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its unique POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and delivers a rich, deep sound signature alongside a medium-light feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a satisfying typing experience when crafting documents or chatting online. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is engineered specifically with gamers in mind, featuring a lightweight actuation force and a shortened travel distance that allows for lightning-fast key presses, critical in high-stakes gaming environments. While the Elf provides an immersive auditory experience, the V3 Silver Pro ensures every keystroke is efficient and responsive. 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
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, notable differences emerge, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Huano Elf utilizes a POK top housing, renowned for its exceptionally low coefficient of friction and impressive durability properties. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK offers a smooth typing experience, contributing to what users describe as a clacky sound profile. Additionally, its robust wear and shock resistance enhance the longevity of the switch. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This key distinction in the top housing materials results in differing auditory feedback when the keys are pressed and released, offering users unique experiences based on their preference for sound characteristics.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Huano Elf and the Akko V3 Silver Pro incorporate nylon, a classic material prized for its cushioned and full-bodied sound output. The nylon in both switches allows for a deeper sound when typing, absorbing some vibrations and creating a mellow play on auditory feedback. This similarity ensures that regardless of the differences in top housing materials, both switches will provide a rounded acoustic experience grounded in their nylon bottoms. Therefore, when comparing the two switches under the premise of their bottom housings, one can expect a consistent and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of nylon, thus harmonizing the overall typing experience even if the top housings create contrasting results.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch provides a distinctive interplay between the sound profiles generated by the different top and bottom housings. While the Huano Elf aims for a smooth and loud clacky sound through its POK material and a deeper feel thanks to nylon, the Akko V3 Silver Pro focuses on clarity and resonance with its polycarbonate top while maintaining that fuller sound through the same nylon bottom. Both switches exhibit the potential for a captivating auditory experience, driven by the characteristics inherent to their materials. By integrating these unique aspects, users can achieve a similar depth and richness in sound despite the variance in the top housings' impact on tactile feedback and acoustic qualities.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Elf has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making the V3 Silver Pro easier to press down for extended use. This lower actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a lighter switch for long typing sessions or gaming. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Silver Pro has a measurable bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a tactile feel when the key is fully pressed down; however, the Elf's bottom out force is unspecified, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. While the Elf's actuation force is heavier, without knowing the bottom out force, we can't fully assess how it might feel upon a complete keystroke compared to the V3 Silver Pro. Therefore, users seeking a less strenuous typing experience may lean towards the lighter V3 Silver Pro, especially noting its defined bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we find notable differences that may cater to different user preferences. The Huano Elf boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a longer option that provides a more pronounced key press, which some users may appreciate for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, appealing to those who favor quicker, more responsive key presses—especially beneficial for gamers looking for fast reaction times. Thus, while the Elf offers a deeper feel, the V3 Silver Pro provides a snappier response, reflecting the ongoing trend towards shorter travel distances in modern switches. If you enjoy a hearty depth in your key presses, the Huano Elf would be the better choice, whereas the Akko V3 Silver Pro is ideal for those prioritizing speedy feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Huano Elf switch showcases a deep sound signature that can create a more rich and resonant typing experience. Its POK top housing enhances acoustics, allowing for a unique audio profile that can be quite satisfying for those who appreciate a bassy tone. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound upon keystroke. This stark contrast in audio characteristics suggests that users will have two distinct auditory experiences; the Elf's deeper tone may appeal more to those who favor a fuller sound, while the V3 Silver Pro's higher pitch will attract users looking for a lighter and more precise auditory feedback. It's essential to recognize that sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard construction and keycap materials, which may further define the final auditory experience for either switch.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Huano Elf switch is noted for its medium-light resistance, striking a balance that offers a pleasurable typing experience without being overly taxing on the fingers. Its construction lends itself to a more traditional feel, making it suitable for various typing tasks. In contrast, Akko V3 Silver Pro switches excel in ease of use, characterized by an exceptionally light actuation force and increased travel distance, which are notable advantages for competitive gaming where speed is crucial. Users will experience a creamy, feathery, and silky typing sensation with the V3 Silver Pro, allowing for a more effortless and comfortable interaction that reduces finger fatigue. This makes the Pro switch very appealing for those who frequently type intensively or game for extended periods.
In conclusion, while the Huano Elf switch provides a deep sound profile with a balanced medium-light feel that can cater to general use, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch delivers a distinct high-pitched auditory experience alongside a feather-light and creamy tactile quality, designed with gamers in mind. Users looking for a bassier sound and a slightly more traditional typing feel might gravitate towards the Elf, while those prioritizing speed and a smoother typing experience will likely find the V3 Silver Pro to be a better fit. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences in both sound and feel, but be aware that both switches can offer you a satisfying and responsive typing experience in their own unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch should ultimately come down to your specific typing needs and preferences. If you're looking for a switch that offers a unique acoustic profile, characterized by deep, bassy sounds and a medium-light feel, the Huano Elf is an excellent option. It's designed for individuals who appreciate a satisfying typing experience, especially if you spend long hours typing or gaming and prefer a smoothed-out, polished touch. On the other hand, if gaming is your primary focus and you require swift, precise key presses with minimal resistance, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is clearly the better choice. This switch's lighter actuation force and shorter travel distance are crucial for fast-paced gaming scenarios where milliseconds matter. Additionally, the high-pitched sound of the V3 Silver Pro may appeal to those who favor sharper auditory feedback. Ultimately, while both switches excel in their own right, aligning your choice with your typing style and the activities you'll be engaging in will help enhance your overall experience.
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