Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Lavender Purple V3 switches offer a unique combination of features, boasting a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making them a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch is known for its silent operation with no specific standout features. While the Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the Silent Yellow switch does not fall into any specific categories. When choosing between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience; 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
60g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow, it is clear that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Both switches benefit from the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, while the Outemu Silent Yellow also uses nylon but with a different shade of yellow. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro potentially offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow.
Overall, while both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The split between the qualities of each housing material allows for a unique typing experience depending on the switch. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro or a deeper and fuller sound with the Outemu Silent Yellow, both switches offer distinctive characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, offering a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, allowing for longer typing sessions, while individuals seeking a stronger push may gravitate towards the Outemu Silent Yellow for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with each offering a unique typing experience based on actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Silent Yellow's 4 mm. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for swift keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow provides a slightly deeper press with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial feeling when typing. Overall, both switches offer slightly different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro being the shorter option and the Outemu Silent Yellow being the longer option.
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 Silent Yellow 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, which can be described as crisp and springy. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch is known for its quiet operation thanks to the dampening material present within the switch. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch will provide a more audible typing experience compared to the Silent Yellow switch, which is designed for those who prefer a quieter keyboard.
In terms of feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers an accented and bouncy tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too harsh or too subtle. The switch also has a snappy and polished feel, contributing to a smooth and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch's tactile feel is unknown, but it is known for its smooth and linear operation without any tactile bump or audible click.
Overall, if you prefer a tactile switch with a higher-pitched sound profile and a delightful tactile bump, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a silent operation and smooth keystrokes, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch would be a better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on your personal typing preferences and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should choose the V3 Lavender Purple Pro if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile, and appreciate a satisfying tactile bump for a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a silent typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Outemu Silent Yellow may be the better choice for you. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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