SP-Star Meteor White vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we find two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Meteor White offers a gentle and soft typing experience with a subtle sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter and more relaxed typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is tailored towards gamers, offering a smooth keystroke with a pleasing bassy sound, along with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for fast and precise inputs. While the Meteor White is perfect for a softer and more subdued typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro caters to gamers looking for quick and responsive keystrokes. 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor White and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Nylon top housing of the Meteor White creates a deep, fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro produces a sharp, crisp sound. The contrast in sound profiles is further emphasized by the differences in the stiffness of the plastics used in the housings. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound, whereas polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more resonant and clear sound. Aesthetically, the V3 Silver Pro's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting, giving it an edge in customization options compared to the Meteor White.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Meteor White and the V3 Silver Pro feature Nylon housings. This means that both switches will produce a deep and fuller sound profile when pressed. The similarity in bottom housing material indicates that the typing experience between these two switches may have more similarities than differences, given that the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. However, the differences in top housing materials between the two switches may still result in noticeable variations in sound when keys are released, as the top housing plays a key role in the sound profile during key release.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor White and the Akko V3 Silver Pro ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches feature Nylon bottom housings that provide a deep and fuller sound, the differences in top housing materials offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the rounder, fuller sound of Nylon in the Meteor White or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the V3 Silver Pro, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are clear differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, falling into the medium-light category, while the V3 Silver Pro only requires 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. In terms of actuation force, the Meteor White is listed as having no specific force requirement, which may result in a more varied typing experience compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 40-gram actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro, while the Meteor White may offer a more unique typing feel due to its lack of specified actuation force. Ultimately, both switches provide different experiences when it comes to weight preferences, with the V3 Silver Pro being the lighter option and the Meteor White offering a potentially varied actuation force for users.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Meteor White switch has a longer travel distance compared to the V3 Silver Pro switch, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch offers a shorter travel distance which could cater to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their travel distances, with the Meteor White being on the longer end of the spectrum and the V3 Silver Pro providing a shallower key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a more neutral and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and preferences. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, catering to those who prefer a brighter sound signature. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, which is gentle and smooth for most users. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch provides an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky typing feel, enhancing the overall smoothness and comfort during extended typing sessions. These qualities make the V3 Silver Pro particularly appealing to gamers seeking a responsive and low-impact typing experience.
In conclusion, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches excel in their own right. The Meteor White provides a soft and subdued typing experience with a neutral and thocky sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers with its light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and bassy, high-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and intended use, as both can deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White may be the ideal choice for you. This switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it suitable for various typing scenarios. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom out force and a pleasing bassy sound, the V3 Silver Pro could be more suitable, especially if you are a gamer looking for enhanced responsiveness. This switch provides an easy-to-press feel with an emphasis on creamy and feathery typing sensations. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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