Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, two compelling options are the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Cream Pink, both classified as linear switches but offering distinctly different experiences. The Matcha Green Pro switches are celebrated for their smooth and substantial feel, making them an excellent choice for users who crave a solid, responsive keystroke. With their sharp bottom-out and resonate clacks, these switches provide satisfying auditory and tactile feedback that appeals to typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink switches, while lacking specific standout features in popular reviews, offer a straightforward linear typing experience, ideal for users who prioritize a gentle approach to keystrokes without distractions. Each switch has its merits—whether it's the Matcha Green's bouncy and clacky characteristics or the Cream Pink's simplicity, your choice may ultimately depend on what you value most in a keyboard. 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
2.00 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
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
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Cream Pink exhibit differing characteristics in their top housing materials, which directly influences the sound profile of each switch. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffness allows for a more resonant tonal quality, making it especially effective when RGB lighting is used, as the translucency enhances the visual effects of the lighting. Conversely, the Outemu Cream Pink features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs sound better than polycarbonate, resulting in a rounder, more muted auditory experience. Consequently, while the V3's top housing contributes to brightness and clarity in sound, the Cream Pink's top housing lends warmth and depth.
Interestingly, both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Cream Pink share nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality means that both switches will generate a similar sound trait characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile upon bottoming out. The nylon bottom housing's properties help mitigate harshness, making it effective in producing a satisfying and cushioned feel when the key is fully pressed. Therefore, while the top housings distinctly shape the character of the sound produced during the actuation and release of the keys, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent, rounded auditory foundation for both switches.
In summary, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and Outemu Cream Pink differ in the characteristics of their top housing materials, their commonality in bottom housing leads to some overlap in auditory qualities. The polycarbonate top of the V3 provides clarity during the release of the key, which can sharply contrast with the softer, fuller sound cultivated by the nylon top of the Cream Pink. However, both switches will still deliver a satisfying experience due to their nylon bottom housing, which significantly shapes the typing experience by offering depth and richness. As such, users can expect a nuanced differentiation between the two switches while still enjoying the underlying acoustic similarities provided by the nylon base.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, we can observe distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Cream Pink has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams but a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Cream Pink is the lighter switch in terms of actuation, requiring less force to trigger a keystroke, which can enhance typing comfort during extended use. However, the Cream Pink's higher bottom out force may give it a firmer feel upon bottoming out compared to the Matcha. Overall, those seeking a lighter typing experience might prefer the Outemu Cream Pink for its lower actuation force, whereas the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a more balanced, slightly firmer feedback with its medium forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, we see distinct differences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Cream Pink, which features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that for users seeking quicker response times, the Matcha Green Pro could be the better option, as its shorter travel distance can enhance speed and efficiency during typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cream Pink's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper press, resulting in a feel that is less abrupt. Ultimately, your preference between these two switches will depend on whether you value speed and responsiveness or prefer more substantial feedback when typing.
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 Pink 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 vibrant auditory experience characterized by its clacky and resonant qualities. Users can expect a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound when typing, enhancing the tactile engagement of each keystroke. The sound profile is not only clean but also immersive, providing an enjoyable acoustic backdrop whether for typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Pink does not have a defined sound profile available, which suggests it may lack some of the unique auditory characteristics present in the Matcha Green Pro. As sound is also influenced by the keyboard chassis and keycap selection, users of the Cream Pink can still achieve a satisfying auditory experience, albeit without the specific definition of the Matcha's resonant features.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the V3 Matcha Green Pro sets itself apart with an impressive array of textures that lend to an overall delightful typing experience. It is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing both lively feedback and a luxurious gliding sensation that many typists and gamers crave. This combination results in an exceptionally smooth and effective keystroke, giving users the sensation that their fingers are effortlessly melting into each press. The Cream Pink switch, on the other hand, lacks specific descriptions regarding its feel, making it challenging to compare directly; thus, it may not offer the same multi-faceted tactile enjoyment that the Matcha Green Pro provides.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch boasts well-defined audio and tactile characteristics that can significantly enhance the typing experience, the Outemu Cream Pink does not present equivalent descriptions or details to draw clear comparisons. Users seeking a vivid auditory response and an array of smoothness in their keystrokes will likely favor the Matcha Green Pro, whereas the Cream Pink's unspecified qualities present an unpredictable alternative. Ultimately, if you are looking for a satisfying experience, the Matcha Green Pro's rich profile in sound and feel may be a more reliable option.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switches, consider your typing preferences and what you value most in a keyboard experience. If you enjoy a smooth and responsive keystroke with a satisfying sharp bottom-out and a clacky, resonant sound, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is an excellent choice. These switches will cater to both typists and gamers who appreciate a bouncy, polished feel, allowing for an engaging and dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer actuation and require a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Cream Pink might suit you better. Although less known for distinctive features, the Cream Pink can still offer a solid, albeit less expressive typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you're looking for a vibrant auditory feedback and tactile pleasure or a more subdued yet grounded typing feel that may align more closely with your everyday tasks.
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