Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Cream Blue offer distinct experiences for users. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is a linear switch that boasts a smooth and substantial feel, perfect for those who prioritize a solid and responsive keystroke. Its satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, along with clear and tactile feedback, makes it ideal for typists and gamers looking for a gratifying experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue is a clicky switch that does not have any specific standout features mentioned. While the Matcha Green Pro is characterized by being 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', the Cream Blue does not have any specific categories listed. Depending on your preference for a linear or clicky switch, each of these options offers unique advantages. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Cream Blue switches feature nylon top housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, with the Cream Blue offering a more rounded sound and the V3 Matcha Green Pro providing a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cream Blue switches utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller typing sound. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile for both switches. While the bottom housing may not have as much of an impact on the overall sound profile compared to the top housing, the use of nylon in this component helps maintain a consistent typing experience for both switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Cream Blue switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing feel of each switch. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound experience, the use of polycarbonate in the V3 Matcha Green Pro's top housing sets it apart with a sharper and crisper sound profile. Whether you prefer a more rounded sound of the Cream Blue or a clearer sound of the V3 Matcha Green Pro, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch with a 50-gram actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 requires 63 grams, while the Outemu Cream Blue needs 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall within the medium range for actuation force, but the Outemu Cream Blue edges towards the medium-heavy side when it comes to bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Akko V3 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may opt for the Outemu Cream Blue for a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces differ slightly between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of key response and performance.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's 4 mm travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Matcha Green Pro may appeal to those seeking a more responsive typing experience, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Cream Blue may provide a more substantial and satisfying keypress for some users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
The Outemu Cream Blue 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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a clacky and resonant experience, providing sharp and snappy sounds with a higher-pitched profile that can be described as clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks a specific sound descriptor, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is known for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Typing on these switches can provide a lively yet effortless typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, information on the feel of the Cream Blue switch is unavailable, making it challenging to compare this aspect directly.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch seems to offer a more detailed and descriptive experience in terms of sound and feel compared to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch. While the Cream Blue switch lacks specific descriptors in sound and feel, it is possible to expect a unique typing experience from it. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the overall user experience desired.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it's important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a smooth and substantial keystroke with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and tactile feedback, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clicky sound and aren't as concerned with a specific tactile feel, the Cream Blue could be a great option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose the one that best suits your typing needs and preferences.