HMX Hibiscus vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus and the Akko V3 Piano Pro can significantly impact your typing experience. The HMX Hibiscus is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force and a smooth, pristine typing experience that appeals to those who desire effortless key presses paired with a distinctively clacky, poppy sound. This switch stands out for users who prioritize a fluid typing motion, making it a top pick for gamers and typists alike who want speed without compromising on audio feedback. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a lively and crisp sound with its long pole design, providing a snappy auditory feedback that enhances the excitement of each keystroke. The Piano Pro also maintains a smooth actuation, creating a well-rounded experience for both gaming and typing enthusiasts who appreciate a slightly bouncier feel. Ultimately, while both switches cater to linear switch lovers, the HMX Hibiscus emphasizes a silky typing experience, whereas the V3 Piano Pro brings a vibrant, resonant energy to each press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits 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
3.50 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
Nylon
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 spring
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, making them comparable in terms of material properties. Nylon is a renowned choice in the mechanical keyboard community for its tactile and auditory qualities. In the case of both switches, this softer plastic contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is partly due to nylon's ability to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is not only duller but also rounder. Therefore, users of either switch can expect a similarly rich auditory experience that complements their typing rhythm.
When examining the overall switch design, the impact of nylon housing on the typing experience is crucial. Since both the Hibiscus and the V3 Piano Pro contain nylon for both the top and bottom housings, they will share many sound characteristics. The bottom housing influences the sound and feel when bottoming out, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced as the key is released. Given that both switches are constructed with the same nylon material, users can anticipate a cohesive experience, where the properties of the bottom housing combine seamlessly with those of the top.
Though the HMX Hibiscus and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches are made from the same material, the individual designs may yield slight differences in overall feel and performance. While the nylon in both switches helps create a rounded sound profile, other factors, such as spring tension, keycap compatibility, and design philosophy, could contribute to subtle variations in feel and feedback. However, since the core material remains the same, users are likely to enjoy similar auditory and tactile experiences, regardless of their choice between the Hibiscus or the V3 Piano Pro, reinforcing the notion that material selection plays a fundamentally integral role in mechanical switch design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Hibiscus operates with a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a suitable choice for users seeking comfortable extended typing sessions. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This increased resistance may appeal to those who prefer a more tangible and substantial typing experience. Therefore, while both switches can provide satisfactory performance, the Hibiscus is the lighter option and the V3 Piano Pro is the heavier one, reflecting users' preferences for either ease of use or a firmer feedback in tactile engagements.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which means that the distance you feel when pressing down on the keys is identical for both switches. Given this equal travel distance, users can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation characteristics when using either switch. This uniformity can lead to a consistent typing experience, allowing for seamless transitions between devices that utilize these switches. Consequently, whether one opts for the Hibiscus or the V3 Piano Pro, the performance in terms of travel distance will be the same, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing motion.
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 Piano 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 Piano 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 Hibiscus linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that provides an engaging auditory experience with each keystroke. This unique quality makes the Hibiscus enjoyable for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound while typing. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro presents a snappier auditory experience, defined by its lively and crisp sound. With clacky and resonant qualities, the V3 Piano Pro produces sharp, bright, and percussive sounds that enhance the typing experience and elevate it further. While both switches emphasize a lively sound profile, the Hibiscus leans more towards a crispy sensation, while the V3 Piano Pro's focus is on snappiness.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch delivers an ultra-smooth typing experience that is hard to rival, providing a sense of gliding ease as you press the keys. Although specific details on its tactile feedback are not provided, the emphasis on "pristine typing experience" suggests a level of refinement that should impress most users. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a bouncy and creamy touch, providing a delightful springiness with each press. Users can expect an elastic feedback that adds liveliness to their typing. Additionally, the silky and polished descriptions imply that the V3 Piano Pro's actuation is refined and exceptionally smooth due to either materials or factory lubing, enhancing the overall experience.
In summary, both the HMX Hibiscus and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches offer distinct sounds and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Hibiscus impresses with its clacky and crispy sound alongside unparalleled smoothness, while the V3 Piano Pro captivates with its snappy, resonant auditory qualities and bouncy, creamy feedback. Users seeking a typing experience that combines lively sounds with a polished feel may gravitate toward the V3 Piano Pro, while those who prioritize an ultra-smooth and satisfying auditory experience might favor the Hibiscus. Regardless, both switches promise to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, and personal preference will ultimately guide the choice between them.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences in typing feel, sound profile, and intended use. If you favor an ultra-light typing experience that allows for rapid keystrokes while maintaining a satisfyingly clacky and crispy auditory feedback, the HMX Hibiscus switches would likely be your best bet. Their 48-gram actuation force caters to those who enjoy fast typing with minimal resistance, making them ideal for users who type frequently and prefer a playful sound signature. Conversely, if you lean towards a more moderate actuation force with a lively and crisp sound, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch may be more suitable for you. The 55-gram actuation provides a balance of responsiveness and slight tactile feedback, making it a great option for both typing and gaming. The Piano Pro’s snappy sound adds a charming cadence to your keystrokes, while its bouncy and silky feel can enhance the joy of prolonged usage. In the end, your decision boils down to whether you prioritize a feather-light touch and a more pronounced clack or a medium-light feel with a crisp, auditory satisfaction in your typing experience.
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