Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Purple mechanical keyboard switches, we can see that both offer a tactile typing experience. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is known for its delightful combination of features, including a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making it popular among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch doesn't have any specific standout features but still provides a tactile feedback. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', the Outemu Purple doesn't fall into any specific category. 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
2.00 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 Purple, we can see that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic. This material also allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Purple differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper sound profile, while the Outemu Purple's material is not explicitly stated. The use of polycarbonate in the Outemu Purple's top housing is likely to provide a similar sharp and clear sound profile as seen in the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. However, the lack of information on the bottom housing material for the Outemu Purple makes it difficult to compare the overall sound profile of the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro's combination of polycarbonate top housing for a sharp sound and nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound offers a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the specifics of the Outemu Purple's housing materials are less clear, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches. Regardless, understanding how different materials impact sound and feel can help mechanical keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when choosing between switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, we can see that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple's actuation force of 50 grams. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro also has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams in contrast to the Purple's unknown bottom out force. This means that the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a lighter typing experience overall. Some users may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter weight, while others may opt for the Outemu Purple switch for a more substantial and robust typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Outemu Purple switch slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro may cater more to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Outemu Purple may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and keypress responsiveness.
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 Purple 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 is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, which can provide a more satisfying auditory experience for some users. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is not well-documented, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as having an accented tactility, providing a medium level of tactile feedback without being overly sharp or scratchy. Additionally, these switches are noted for their bouncy and snappy feel, giving the keys a lively sensation with responsive feedback. The polished finish of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches also contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Information on the specific feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is unavailable, making a direct comparison challenging.
Overall, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile, accented and bouncy tactile feedback, and a polished finish for smoother key travel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Purple tactile switch remain unknown. As a newcomer, if you are seeking a similar tactile and auditory experience to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch, you may want to consider trying out the Outemu Purple switch and exploring how it complements your typing preferences and overall keyboard setup. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and a delightful typing experience characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, then the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a different bottom out force and sound profile, the Outemu Purple switch may suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.