Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key factors to consider. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch that offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown is also a tactile switch, but it lacks specific standout features. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and are categorized differently - the V3 Lavender Purple Pro as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', and the Crystal Brown with no specific categorization. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Crystal Brown, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This shared feature means that they will both offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, providing a visually appealing aspect to both switches.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is attributed to nylon's softer properties, which absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Crystal Brown also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in each switch contributes to a unique typing experience. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings allow for a balance between the impact of bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound produced when releasing a key. Both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Crystal Brown showcase the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams, making them equal in terms of force required for typing. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and feedback when using either of these switches. The medium-light actuation and bottom out forces of both switches make them suitable for users who prefer a balance between a lighter typing experience for longer use or a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches would come down to other factors such as sound, tactility, and personal preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Crystal Brown's 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Crystal Brown being more standard at 4 mm, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal more to gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Crystal Brown may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Crystal 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 switch is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, which can provide a unique and satisfying auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is not as well-documented, so it may be more difficult to predict how it will sound in actual usage. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities contribute to a medium tactile experience that is noticeable without being overwhelming, offering a smooth and responsive typing feel. In contrast, the specific tactile feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is not specified, leaving its tactile characteristics open to interpretation until actual use.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a distinct combination of sound and feel qualities that cater to keyboard enthusiasts seeking a tactile typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile. While the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may also provide a tactile typing experience, the lack of specific information makes it harder to directly compare to the known qualities of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to offer a satisfying typing experience, but the distinct features of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch may make it a more appealing choice for those looking for a specific set of qualities in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should choose the V3 Lavender Purple Pro if you are looking for a satisfying tactile bump and a higher-pitched sound profile. This switch offers an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, consider the Outemu Crystal Brown if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are not concerned about sound or specific feel characteristics. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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