Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Akko V3 Silver Pro provide distinct experiences catering to different preferences and needs. The Cherry MX Purple is celebrated for its tactile feedback, featuring a refined bump that offers a satisfying mid-strength resistance, making it an excellent option for typists who enjoy a more interactive keystroke. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is designed with gamers in mind, boasting a linear switch that ensures smooth, effortless keystrokes with a low actuation force and shortened travel distance. This creates a rapid response ideal for competitive play, along with a pleasing bassy sound that enhances the overall experience. While the MX Purple appeals to those seeking tactile feedback and a pronounced typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro caters to the fast-paced needs of gamers aiming for precision and speed. 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
45g
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 Purple RGB and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, a distinct divergence can be observed in their top housing construction. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, known for its softer quality and ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, rounder auditory profile when typing. This material's characteristics allow for a more muted sound, enticing those who prefer a subtler auditory experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which is significantly stiffer and provides a sharper, crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the aesthetic appeal, especially for RGB lighting setups, but also facilitates a clearer resonance that some typists may find more satisfying. The choice of materials here illustrates a fundamental difference in auditory feedback and visual appeal driven by the switch's primary applications.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Akko V3 Silver Pro employ nylon, a classic switch housing material that infuses a deeper, fuller sound profile. This consistency in material means that, regardless of the contrasting top housing, both switches will share similar auditory characteristics in their bottom-out sound due to the softer nature of nylon. As the bottom housing is responsible for more than just the sound; it also impacts the tactile feedback when the key is pressed down. This commonality in bottom housing construction suggests that users will experience a comparable level of comfort and sound moisture when fully depressing either switch, despite the differences found in the top housing.
Ultimately, the interaction between the two materials influences the overall typing experience significantly. While the Cherry MX Purple RGB will produce fuller sounds with a more muted quality due to its nylon top, the Akko V3 Silver Pro will yield a brighter and more resonant auditory experience thanks to its polycarbonate top. The nylon bottom of both switches creates a level of consistency, ensuring that the bottoming-out experience retains a similar depth and softness. Thus, users looking for a softer, more subdued keypress may prefer the MX Purple RGB, while those favoring a sharper and more vibrant keystroke may gravitate towards the V3 Silver Pro. The choice between the two hinges largely on personal preference regarding sound profile and tactile feedback amid their shared characteristics in bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we note distinct differences in their characteristics. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it slightly heavier than the Akko V3 Silver Pro's actuation force of 40 grams. This difference suggests that users might find the MX Purple RGB slightly more substantial to press, which some typists and gamers may prefer for a more tactile experience. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unavailable, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison in that regard. The V3 Silver Pro, on the other hand, has a well-defined bottom out force of 45 grams. In conclusion, if a lighter actuation force is favored, the Akko V3 Silver Pro with its 40 grams force would be the better choice, while the heavier Cherry MX Purple RGB might appeal to those who appreciate a firmer tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference highlights the contrast between the two: the MX Purple RGB offers a more traditional and deeper keypress, which some users may find more satisfying and substantial, especially those who prefer a tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro's shorter 3.3 mm travel distance caters to gamers and those who seek quicker response times, allowing for faster key presses and potentially improved performance in fast-paced scenarios. Ultimately, if you lean towards a more responsive feel, the V3 Silver Pro is the preferred choice, whereas the MX Purple RGB would be ideal for users who appreciate a more pronounced key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switches produce a refined tonal quality that complements their tactile bump. While specific descriptions for the sound profile of the MX Purple RGB are not given, they are typically associated with a balanced audible feedback when pressed, which can be quite engaging for typists who appreciate a tactile response without excessive noise. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are characterized by a high-pitched sound when activated, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience. This distinction means that while the MX Purple RGB provides a more subtle auditory feedback, the V3 Silver Pro delivers an excitingly bright pop that can be preferable for gamers looking for sound cues during fast-paced gameplay.
When considering feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB provides a medium-strength tactile bump that adds to its engaging typing experience. Although specific descriptors are not provided, the tactile nature of the switch indicates a satisfying feedback that allows users to feel the actuation point, enhancing overall precision and control. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches shine with a more effortless typing experience; they feature an easy-to-press mechanism that diminishes finger fatigue, making them particularly suitable for extended sessions. Notably, the V3 Silver Pro also offers a creamy, polished, and silky feel during key presses, resulting in a smooth and buttery experience that allows users to glide easily from key to key.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches cater to distinct preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The MX Purple RGB provides a refined auditory experience with a tactile bump ideal for typists who enjoy a subtle yet effective feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro stands out for gamers with its high-pitched sound and exceptionally smooth feel that promotes speed and comfort in typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the tactile sensation and auditory feedback of the MX Purple RGB or the ease of actuation and smoothness of the V3 Silver Pro.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you seek a refined tactile experience that offers a satisfying bump without overwhelming your fingers, especially for typing or casual gaming, then the Cherry MX Purple RGB is likely the better fit for you. Its unique design, developed in collaboration with enthusiasts, provides a balance between tactile feedback and comfort. On the other hand, if you're primarily a gamer or someone who values rapid key presses and responsiveness in your typing experience, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is the ideal option. With its light actuation force and creamy smoothness, it allows for swift keystrokes that can enhance your performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Additionally, if sound is a significant factor for you, remember that the V3 Silver Pro’s high-pitched tone delivers a sharp and crisp auditory feedback, contrasting the deeper sounds one might expect from the MX Purple RGB. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you favor tactile feedback or a more effortless, buttery typing feel conducive to gaming.
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