Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is favored for its delightful combination of features, including a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making it ideal for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a polished and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch does not have any specific standout features mentioned but is known for its clicky sound profile. While the Lavender Purple Pro offers a unique typing experience with its tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue is favored for its distinctive clicky sound. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common feature in their top housing, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro sets itself apart with a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by harder plastics.
In terms of housing materials, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Blue use different materials for their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue also uses a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Although the bottom housing may not be as visually prominent as the top housing, it plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housings of both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Blue results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Blue's nylon bottom housing. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Outemu Blue switch is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Akko V3 for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Outemu Blue for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience based on personal preference. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the V3 Lavender Purple Pro a popular choice. However, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Outemu Blue with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is recognized for its satisfying clicky sound that is reminiscent of classic mechanical keyboards. Depending on personal preferences, some users may prefer the soft, higher-pitched sound of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, while others may gravitate towards the crisp click of the Outemu Blue.
In terms of feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is often described as having an accented tactile bump, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, these switches are bouncy and snappy, offering a lively typing experience with smooth key travel due to their polished finish. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Blue switch is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, based on the known qualities of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch, users can expect a responsive and smooth typing experience with the Outemu Blue switch as well.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, the Outemu Blue switch offers a classic clicky sound that many users appreciate. Both switches have their own unique tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to individual preference. Ultimately, both switches can provide a fulfilling typing experience depending on the user's personal taste and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force and a delightful combination of features like a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a bottom out force of None and a different typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch may be more suitable for your needs. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and your individual preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics and can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience in different ways.
Mentioned in this article
