Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, with the Cherry Nixie, a linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their characteristics and typing experiences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a pleasingly bouncy and snappy tactile bump, along with a higher-pitched sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more accentuated typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie provides a textured and thocky typing experience with a low-pitched sound, appealing to those who prefer a traditional yet updated switch design. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Cherry Nixie, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. In contrast, the Nixie utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Nixie's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound overall.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is the material used for the bottom housing. Both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Cherry Nixie feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. While the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in top housing materials, both switches share the benefits of having a nylon bottom housing for enhanced sound quality.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Cherry Nixie ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for users who enjoy a more rounded typing sound. Both switches offer the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a deep and resonant sound profile regardless of the top housing material chosen. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. Similarly, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Nixie has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro make it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry Nixie provide a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, we can see that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Nixie's 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize faster actions may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for this reason. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile that adds a touch of elegance to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors like the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accentuated, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile feel that is not overly pronounced yet still provides a satisfying feedback. The Cherry Nixie switch, in contrast, is known for its textured feel, which adds a subtle friction to the typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a bit of resistance in their switches.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a higher-pitched sound and a medium tactile feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky, low-pitched sound with a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie switch might be more up your alley. Remember, the ultimate typing experience also depends on your personal preferences and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a thocky, low-pitched sound, then the Cherry Nixie might be more suited to your taste. Consider what type of typing experience you enjoy most and make your decision based on that. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
