Cherry MX Orange vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence both typing experience and gaming performance. The Cherry MX Orange switch, a nostalgic reissue of a beloved classic, boasts a smooth linear action with a focus on a balanced feel, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. Its heritage and nuanced enhancements cater to those who appreciate tactile feedback without the clicky noise, striking a delightful compromise for keyboard enthusiasts. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is purposefully designed with gamers in mind. Featuring a light actuation force and a shortened travel distance, it allows for rapid keystrokes, enhancing performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios. The combination of a creamy feel and a bassy sound adds an auditory pleasure to the experience, ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. While both switches offer linear smoothness with distinct advantages, choosing the right one hinges on your specific needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches, a distinct contrast emerges in the properties of their top housings. The Cherry MX Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to nylon's softer nature, it absorbs more sound, which results in a duller and rounder audio experience when typing. This characteristic makes the MX Orange well-suited for users who prefer a more muted typing sound. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro's top housing is made from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that generates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The clear translucency of polycarbonate enhances the switch's compatibility with RGB lighting, creating a more vibrant aesthetic while delivering a crisp sound that many gamers and typists appreciate.
In terms of the bottom housings, both switches feature nylon materials, which means they share common characteristics in this area. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, similar to the qualities provided by the MX Orange's bottom housing. This is significant because while the top housings introduce contrasting auditory experiences, the similar material employed in the bottom housings helps maintain an element of consistency across both switches. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the nylon are felt more profoundly, influencing the bottoming-out sound and tactile feedback. Thus, despite the top housing differences, the nylon bottom in both switches ensures that users experience a cohesive response during their typing sessions.
Ultimately, the differing top housings of the Cherry MX Orange and the Akko V3 Silver Pro provide unique sound profiles, allowing for personal preference in auditory feedback. While the MX Orange's nylon top contributes to a more subdued and rounded sound, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top allows for a vibrant and clear tonal quality. However, the shared nylon material in their bottom housings brings a layer of commonality that fosters a deeper sound experience for both switches. Users seeking a full-bodied sound may lean towards the MX Orange, while those who prefer a sharper auditory response may find the Akko V3 Silver Pro more appealing. Overall, these material choices cater to varying preferences without sacrificing the underlying performance that nylon brings to the typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch differ significantly in their actuation forces. The MX Orange requires a force of 55 grams to trigger a keystroke, making it a heavier switch, while the V3 Silver Pro has a notably lighter actuation force of just 40 grams. This difference means that the V3 Silver Pro can be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it places less strain on the fingers. In contrast, the heavier actuation of the MX Orange may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. As for the bottom out forces, the MX Orange's bottom out force is not available, whereas the V3 Silver Pro has a measured bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while the MX Orange's performance cannot be fully assessed in this regard, the V3 Silver Pro's lighter bottom out force further complements its overall ease of use. Overall, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option compared to the Cherry MX Orange, offering a more tactile and less strenuous experience for users seeking comfort during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we find that they differ significantly. The Cherry MX Orange features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional feel that many typists and gamers appreciate for its depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, catering to those who prefer a more responsive and rapid keypress, often favored by gamers for quicker reaction times. Therefore, if you enjoy a more substantial keypress experience, the Cherry MX Orange would be the preferable choice, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro offers a quicker, more agile experience for those who prefer a shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch emits a sound profile that can be characterized as balanced and pleasant, although exact descriptors were not specified. Unlike the MX Orange, the Akko V3 Silver Pro produces a high-pitched, crisp sound when engaged, resulting in a sharper auditory feedback. This distinction is significant; users who prefer a more bass-heavy experience may find the MX Orange more appealing, while those who lean towards a brighter auditory profile will likely favor the V3 Silver Pro. It's noteworthy that the overall sound can also be affected by the keyboard construction and keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch is presumed to maintain a responsive and satisfying actuation, but specific descriptors were not provided. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro excels in this area with multiple qualities: it is easy to press, requiring very little force to actuate, which significantly reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. Furthermore, the V3 Silver Pro is noted for its creamy and silky nature, offering a smooth and nearly frictionless experience that enhances typing comfort. This switch also feels feathery, indicating an exceptionally light touch, making it highly suited for gamers and typists alike. The polished finish further amplifies the smooth experience with reduced friction during keystrokes.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Orange switch offers a balanced auditory experience that appeals to those who enjoy a neutral sound profile, the Akko V3 Silver Pro stands out with its sharp, high-pitched sound and several desirable tactile qualities. The latter provides a very smooth, light, and responsive typing experience, which is particularly advantageous for extended sessions of gaming or typing. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfactory results, but the V3 Silver Pro is tailored for those seeking a more effortless and tactile experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are a gamer or someone who prioritizes rapid keystrokes and responsiveness in high-paced environments, the V3 Silver Pro’s light actuation force and short travel distance make it an excellent choice, allowing for effortless key presses and minimal finger fatigue during prolonged sessions. Additionally, its pleasing high-pitched sound profile contributes to a more dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, if you're more focused on an overall smoother typing experience with delightful tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Orange switch might be the better option. Revived from sought-after original designs, it offers an upgraded experience that caters to those who appreciate a refined typing feel without the heavy bottoming out force. Ultimately, considering what activities most resonate with you—whether it be gaming or typing comfort—will guide you to the switch that aligns best with your usage.
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