Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro. The Cherry MX Speed Silver is a linear switch known for its rapid response time and low spring resistance, making it ideal for gamers looking for maximum speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is also a linear switch designed specifically for gamers, offering a smooth typing experience with a pleasing bassy sound and light actuation force. While both switches cater to gamers seeking quick and precise keystrokes, they differ in aspects such as key feel and sound profile. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The end result is a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience when it comes to sound and feel with the bottom housings of these two switches.
However, when it comes to the top housings, the Cherry MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing while the Akko V3 Silver Pro boasts a polycarbonate top housing. This distinction leads to a notable difference in sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver creates a deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice if RGB lighting will be utilized, adding an aesthetic dimension to the typing experience.
The impact of the housing materials is further highlighted by the fact that the qualities of each material will influence different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing will affect the sound when the key is released. Therefore, while both switches may use nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in top housing materials between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro results in distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams. The bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver is unknown, while the V3 Silver Pro has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience and the ability to type for extended periods, the MX Speed Silver may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the slightly heavier V3 Silver Pro. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, with the choice ultimately depending on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers looking for faster response times. The Cherry MX Speed Silver may offer a slightly more responsive feel due to its slightly longer travel distance, but the difference between the two is minimal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and whether you prefer a slightly longer or shorter travel distance for your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 MX Speed Silver linear switch is often described as producing a thocky and low-pitched sound when pressed and released, giving a deep and satisfying tone. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, including the board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured sensation, providing a subtle friction that may be preferred by some users for a tactile typing experience. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is renowned for its easy-to-press and creamy feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feathery, polished, and silky descriptors of the V3 Silver Pro switch further enhance the overall typing feel, making it comfortable and responsive for various uses, including gaming and work scenarios.
In conclusion, while both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches cater to the needs of gamers seeking swift and precise keystrokes, they differ in sound and feel qualities. The MX Speed Silver switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers a high-pitched sound and a creamy, easy-to-press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, with both switches delivering efficient performance for rapid responses in gaming and other scenarios.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches, consider your priorities. If you prioritize speed and instant response in gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts, the MX Speed Silver with its linear action and low spring resistance might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a satisfying bassy sound, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches with their light actuation force and shortened travel distance could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your specific preferences and usage requirements. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a keyboard switch.
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