Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro with the Outemu Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the tactile category, offering a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. The Lavender Purple V3 switches stand out for their higher-pitched sound profile, bouncy and snappy feel, as well as a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switches do not have any specific standout features mentioned. However, they are known for their reliability and affordability. If you value a unique sound profile and a more pronounced tactile bump, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option, the Outemu Brown switches could be the way to go. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
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 housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Brown switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. In terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches offer similar results due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of a keyboard. While both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Brown switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the distinction lies in the nylon bottom housing used by both switches. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound profile, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences, offering variety in both sound and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch to the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Brown's 53 grams. This means that the V3 switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly lighter 55-gram bottom out force compared to the Brown's heavier 65-gram bottom out force. This results in the Brown switch providing a more substantial typing experience requiring a stronger push feel. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, while those who prefer a firmer keystroke may prefer the Outemu Brown. Ultimately, considering the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces is crucial for selecting a switch that best suits one's typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Brown switch. The difference of 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may lean towards the Outemu Brown for its slightly deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Outemu Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are known for their higher-pitched sound profile, adding a unique auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, Outemu Brown switches offer a different sound characteristic, which may be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are often described as being accented, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overpowering yet not subtle. Additionally, they offer a bouncy and snappy sensation, creating a lively typing experience. The polished finish of these switches also contributes to smooth key travel. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switches' specific feel is not mentioned, but it can be assumed that they offer a different tactile experience based on the materials and design.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Outemu Brown switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Lavender Purple Pro switches provide a higher-pitched sound and a specific feel described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, the specifics of the Outemu Brown switches in terms of sound and feel are not provided. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve desired results.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a higher-pitched sound profile, and a tactile bump for a delightful typing experience, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a different feel, the Outemu Brown tactile switch may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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