Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Silver offer distinct experiences for users. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch known for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is a linear switch that doesn't have a specific standout feature but is praised for its smooth and consistent keystrokes. While the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is characterized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the Outemu Silver doesn't have specific categories. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Silver, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, the differences may lie in the subtle variations in sound resonance and clarity due to the manufacturing processes of each switch brand.
On the other hand, when it comes to the nylon bottom housings of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Silver, they both offer a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other materials. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. This material choice may impact the overall feel and sound of the switches, with the nylon bottom housing having more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Outemu Silver may share similarities in their choice of housing materials such as polycarbonate and nylon, the small differences in manufacturing and design of each switch may result in slightly varying sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches offer a unique combination of materials that contribute to their overall aesthetic appeal and typing performance, making them both popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific sound and feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, making them both light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is lighter with 55 grams compared to the Outemu Silver's heavier 65 grams. This means that the Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a more effortless typing experience with a lighter bottom out force, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Silver switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch provides a slightly deeper keystroke with its longer travel distance, offering a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs.
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 Silver 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
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, providing a delightful typing experience. The switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile feel that is not overwhelming but still provides a noticeable bump. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks specific descriptions for sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. However, linear switches typically offer a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, resulting in a quieter typing experience compared to tactile switches.
In conclusion, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is known for its distinct sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, the Outemu Silver linear switch may offer a smoother and quieter typing experience. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as keyboard layout, keycap material, and typing style to determine which switch would best suit your needs. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, and experimenting with different switches may be the best way to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a tactile bump and a lighter actuation force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier actuation force and no tactile feedback, the Outemu Silver switch might suit your needs better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. Choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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