Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering switches for a mechanical keyboard, one may be drawn to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Lotus, a linear switch. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is praised for its delightful typing experience, featuring a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump. This switch is categorized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus does not have a specific standout feature mentioned but is known for its smoothness and reliability. While the Lavender Purple Pro offers a unique tactile feel, the Lotus provides a smooth and consistent linear typing experience. Both switches have their merits; however, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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 Lotus, it is evident that they both utilize nylon in their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The use of nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, ultimately creating a duller and rounder sound. This shared characteristic suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either of these switches.
However, where the two switches diverge is in their top housing materials. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, which, as mentioned earlier, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This key difference in housing material highlights the importance of the top housing in influencing the overall sound characteristics of a switch.
Despite their differences, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Lotus exemplify how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the typing experience. Whether it be the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing in the V3 Lavender Purple Pro or the deeper sound profile of the nylon housing in the Lotus, each switch offers a unique sound signature that can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct audio feedback when using either of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch to the Outemu Lotus linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we see that the V3 has a slightly heavier actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Lotus's 35 grams, making the Lotus the lighter option. On the other hand, the V3 has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Lotus has a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light range, with the Lotus being slightly lighter overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lotus, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. This means that the Lotus switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch. The shorter travel distance of the Lotus switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Lotus 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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are known for their higher-pitched sound profile, which can add a pleasing auditory experience to typing sessions. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus switches remains unknown. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material.
As for the feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are described as providing an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished tactile experience. These switches offer a medium level of tactility that is not overly sharp or subtle, along with a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth key travel. In contrast, the tactile feel of the Outemu Lotus switches is unspecified at this time.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switches offer a unique combination of features that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience. With their higher-pitched sound profile and a tactile bump that strikes a balance between responsiveness and smoothness, these switches are likely to appeal to users who appreciate a tactile typing feel. On the other hand, the details regarding the Outemu Lotus linear switches are currently unavailable, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the qualities of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches and the known characteristics of linear switches in general, it can be assumed that the Outemu Lotus switches may offer a distinct typing experience with a focus on a smooth keystroke without a tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these two switch options would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with 55 grams may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 50 grams and a linear switch without a tactile bump, the Outemu Lotus may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision will come down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound.
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