Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The MX Silent Red offers a quieter typing experience compared to the traditional MX Red switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch is specifically designed for gamers, with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance that can give them a competitive edge. Both switches have their unique benefits, whether it's the muted thocky feel of the MX Silent Red or the easy-to-press and creamy keystrokes of the V3 Silver Pro. 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, we can see that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the typing experience on both switches may feel similar in terms of sound feedback and overall typing feel.
However, the top housing materials present a notable difference between the two switches. The MX Silent Red utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This variance in top housing material suggests that the sound produced by pressing down on keys and releasing them will differ between the two switches, with the Silent Red offering a more rounded sound and the Silver Pro offering a clearer and resonant sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the MX Silent Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of both switches will provide a similar deep and fuller sound experience, but the differing top housing materials will result in distinct sound profiles when typing. Whether you prefer the duller and rounder sound of nylon or the crisper and sharper sound of polycarbonate will depend on the individual user's preference for typing feel and sound feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we can see that the Silent Red requires 45 grams of force to actuate, while the V3 Silver Pro only needs 40 grams. This means that the V3 Silver Pro is lighter to the touch when initiating a keystroke. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Silent Red does not have a specified value, whereas the V3 Silver Pro requires 45 grams to fully press the key down. This indicates that the V3 Silver Pro is also lighter in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the V3 Silver Pro may be a better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cherry MX Silent Red switch, even though its bottom out force is unknown. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, with the V3 Silver Pro being lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we can see that the MX Silent Red has a longer travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may impact how the keys feel when pressed. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro may provide a more responsive feel, while the slightly longer travel distance of the MX Silent Red may offer a slightly deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Silent Red switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch produces a high-pitched sound, ideal for gamers who enjoy a crisp and sharp typing sound. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the deeper, quieter sound of the MX Silent Red or the sharper, more pronounced sound of the V3 Silver Pro.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is noted for its textured feel, providing a unique tactile experience for users who enjoy a bit of friction when typing. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers an easy-to-press and creamy feel, making each keystroke feel smooth and effortless. With the V3 Silver Pro switch also described as feathery, polished, and silky, users can expect a light, refined, and exceptionally smooth typing experience.
Considering all the available information, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches cater to different preferences and needs. The Cherry MX Silent Red switch excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a textured feel, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is tailored for gamers with its high-pitched sound and easy-to-press, creamy feel. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, depending on whether they prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both. So, if you're looking for a quieter typing experience with a textured feel, the MX Silent Red will deliver similar results to the V3 Silver Pro, providing a more personalized typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you are in a noise-sensitive setting and require a quieter typing experience, the MX Silent Red would be the optimal choice with its muted and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a responsive and effortless typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro's easy-to-press and feathery feel, coupled with its bassy sound profile, would be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific preferences and needs when it comes to typing or gaming.
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