Cherry MX Black vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both offer unique characteristics for different typing preferences. The MX Black, a linear switch, is favored for its low-pitched and textured feel, along with its stiff actuation. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro, also a linear switch, is known for its bouncy and clacky sound signature, as well as its creamy and polished actuation. While the MX Black provides a classic smoothness and deep sound profile, the V3 Piano Pro offers a snappy and lively typing experience with a smooth actuation. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Black and the Akko V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in material choice between the two switches ensures that users will experience a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both the MX Black and the V3 Piano Pro house their switches in nylon top and bottom housings, the impact of each housing material differs in terms of sound production. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, making it a crucial element in determining the overall typing experience. In contrast, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. Despite these differences in impact, both switches ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience due to their shared use of nylon as the housing material.
Overall, the Cherry MX Black and the Akko V3 Piano Pro demonstrate the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of mechanical switches. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings of these switches results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, showing that material choice plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While there may be subtle differences in how the top and bottom housing impact the sound produced by each switch, users can expect a similar level of typing satisfaction from both the MX Black and the V3 Piano Pro due to their shared material composition.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch. The MX Black requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 80 grams to bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro only needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, offering a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro, while individuals seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for the MX Black. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback, allowing users to choose based on their preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Black linear switch is 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Piano Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cherry MX Black. The Cherry MX Black is considered to have a more traditional travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a shallower travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is bass-heavy and mellow, providing a deep auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is described as clacky and resonant, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched, immersive quality. Whether you prefer the mellow tones of the Cherry MX Black or the crisp and bright sound of the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can complement different preferences based on personal taste and typing environment.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is described as textured and stiff, offering noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, with a lively, spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation when pressing the keys. Whether you prefer a switch with a tactile, textured feel like the Cherry MX Black or a switch with a smoother, more refined sensation like the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both switches offer a unique typing experience that can cater to different comfort levels and typing styles.
Overall, the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cherry MX Black provides a deep, low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a snappy, clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing sensation. Whether you prefer a more traditional sound and feel with the Cherry MX Black or a livelier, smoother experience with the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both switches have their own unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences and needs. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switches are a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a snappy sound signature with a smooth and bouncy typing experience, then the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile, so consider these aspects carefully before making your decision.
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