HMX Hibiscus vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Hibiscus and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro each promise unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Hibiscus switch stands out for its ultra-light actuation force, ensuring an extraordinarily smooth and effortless typing experience; its clacky, poppy, and crispy sound adds a satisfying auditory element that many users crave. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a tactile bump that creates a more pronounced feedback during typing, alongside a higher-pitched sound profile that can enhance the overall experience for tactile switch enthusiasts. While the Hibiscus is ideal for those seeking a remarkably smooth and light touch, the Lavender Purple Pro appeals to those who enjoy tactile feedback and a snappier feel. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T3
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
20mm
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro differ significantly in their top housing materials, which directly influences the acoustic profile of each switch. The Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top housing, recognized for its ability to provide a deeper and fuller sound due to the soft nature of the material, which absorbs sound effectively. This allows for a more muted auditory feedback that can create a relaxed typing experience, particularly favored by users who prefer muted acoustics over sharp or resonant sounds. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which lends a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer material, resonates more vividly, resulting in a clear and crisp auditory response that enhances the typing experience, especially when RGB lighting is involved due to its translucency.
Despite the difference in their top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both are made from nylon. This similarity allows the Hibiscus and V3 Lavender Purple Pro to maintain a deeper and fuller sound profile at the bottom-out of the switch. Typing on either switch will elicit a similar typing feel in terms of sound from the bottom housing, creating a rounder sound that contributes to an enjoyable acoustical experience. Nylon’s inherent properties mean that both switches share this characteristic, enabling users to expect a consistent performance at the key's bottom-out point, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials.
When considering the overall typing experience, the impact of the housing materials manifests in distinct ways. The combination of a nylon bottom housing with a nylon top in the Hibiscus results in a cohesive sound profile that emphasizes warmth and depth, perfect for users who appreciate a subdue typing noise. Conversely, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro's structure, where a stiffer polycarbonate top meets a nylon bottom, creates a dynamic contrast between the fullness of the bottom-out sound and the clarity of the release. Thus, while they exhibit unique sound characteristics influenced by their top housing, both switches leverage their nylon bottom housing to deliver a consistent and enjoyable tactile experience across the board.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are notable. The Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 48 grams, making it a better choice for those who prefer to type for extended periods without fatigue, ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial tactile feedback that some users may find rewarding for a more engaging typing experience. Consequently, the Hibiscus is lighter overall, while the Lavender Purple Pro leans towards a heavier feel, making it suitable for users who appreciate a stronger push. Overall, those seeking a more responsive feel with less resistance will likely prefer the Hibiscus, while those desiring more feedback might gravitate towards the Lavender Purple Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, the Hibiscus stands out with a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm can influence the feel and responsiveness of each switch. Gamers and those who prioritize speed may prefer the Hibiscus due to its shorter travel, allowing for quicker response times. Conversely, users who appreciate a more substantial pressing experience might lean towards the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, which offers a deeper travel distance that can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for the balance between responsiveness and depth in tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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.
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 HMX Hibiscus switch is known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making it an engaging choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro, on the other hand, has a higher-pitched sound profile that contributes to an equally delightful experience, particularly for users who appreciate the additional auditory nuance of its tactile bump. Both switches deliver distinctive sound characteristics that can be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, but the Hibiscus leans more towards a deeper, richer tone whereas the Lavender Purple Pro offers a brighter, more pronounced high-end.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness, providing a refined typing experience that makes it extremely comfortable for extended use. Conversely, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro presents an "accented" tactile sensation, falling into the medium tactile category, which offers enough feedback without being overly pronounced. It is notably bouncy, giving a springy and elastic responsiveness to each keystroke, and the overall typing experience is marked by a “snappy” quality, suggesting that it is quick and responsive. Furthermore, the Lavender Purple Pro boasts a polished texture that enhances smoothness and minimizes friction during key travel, making it feel lively and refined.
Overall, both the HMX Hibiscus and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches offer engaging and enjoyable typing experiences but cater to slightly different preferences. The Hibiscus is particularly appealing for users who prioritize smoothness and a clackier sound, while the Lavender Purple Pro provides a pleasing tactile feedback with a lively bounce and higher-pitched sound. Whether you lean towards the smooth indulgence of the Hibiscus or the snappy tactile feedback of the Lavender Purple Pro, either choice will likely yield satisfying results depending on your typing style and desired auditory characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the specific experience you're seeking. If you value a buttery smooth typing experience coupled with an ultra-light actuation force and a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Hibiscus is an excellent choice, making it particularly suitable for gaming and fast-paced typing tasks where speed and fluidity are paramount. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile feel that strikes a balance—offering a noticeable but not overwhelming bump, along with a bouncy and snappy response—the V3 Lavender Purple Pro will enhance your typing experience while providing a delightful higher-pitched sound profile. In essence, opt for the Hibiscus if you're looking for a linear switch that prioritizes smoothness and speed, whereas the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback and a lively, engaging feel during their typing sessions. Your decision should ultimately align with how you want to interact with your keyboard, whether that means enjoying silky, effortless keystrokes or savoring the satisfying touch of tactile feedback.
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