Haimu Orange Sea vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that offer unique tactile experiences and auditory feedback. The Haimu Orange Sea switches are celebrated for their impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, making them a fantastic choice for users seeking a quiet yet responsive experience ideal for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches are designed with a long pole that produces a snappy sound signature, infusing each keystroke with a lively, crisp quality while still providing a smooth actuation. This switch is appealing for those who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback, as it combines an exciting sound with a pleasing tactile sensation. While both switches cater to linear preferences, they present distinctly different experiences. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Orange Sea and the Akko V3 Piano Pro employ different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct acoustic characteristics that define the overall typing experience. The Orange Sea utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for clearer and more resonant sound frequencies. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's top housing is made of nylon, a material known for its capacity to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory output. This contrast in material choice suggests that users of the Orange Sea might enjoy a more vibrant and dynamic sound, while V3 Piano Pro users may prefer a warmer and more rounded auditory experience.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Haimu Orange Sea and the Akko V3 Piano Pro incorporate nylon, which contributes similarly to the overall response of the switches. Nylon is a classic material in keyboard switches that provides a rich, deep sound profile because it effectively absorbs sound waves, leading to a more subdued acoustic experience. Both switches will likely impart a heavy and full sound when bottoming out due to the soft properties of nylon, ensuring that users benefit from a satisfying and resonant feel regardless of which model they choose.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top housing ensures that while the two switches share a common ground in their bottom housings, their sound profiles will diverge significantly. The Orange Sea's polycarbonate top may amplify the brightness of typed notes, making them crisper when the keys are released, whereas the V3 Piano Pro’s nylon top may offer a softer, more subdued release. For users seeking a rounded sound experience, the V3 Piano Pro would be preferable, whereas those who favor clarity and brightness may lean towards the Haimu Orange Sea. Both switches can deliver a deeply satisfying typing experience; the choice ultimately hinges on user preference for sound profile and material characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Orange Sea features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions or gaming, as the reduced effort can minimize fatigue. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience due to its medium-light pressure. As a result, while both switches require a different amount of force to actuate and bottom out, the Orange Sea is the lighter option, offering a more effortless typing feel, whereas the V3 Piano Pro is the heavier choice, ideal for those who prefer a firmer push. This variance in force can significantly influence one’s typing or gaming comfort, ultimately guiding the decision based on personal preference for weight and resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, the two are very close but differ slightly. The Haimu Orange Sea features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Orange Sea the longer option, offering a fuller keypress experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro, with its shorter distance, could be a better choice for gamers seeking quicker response times and reduced key travel. Despite their differences, both switches cater to users who are accustomed to modern preferences in travel distance, and either switch can offer a satisfactory experience depending on whether one prioritizes a deeper keypress or a more immediate actuation.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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
When it comes to sound, the Haimu Orange Sea switches exhibit a neutral sound signature, making them relatively quiet and unobtrusive. This characteristic allows for a more subdued typing experience, which may be beneficial in environments where noise control is important. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches deliver a notably clacky and resonant sound profile. Each keystroke produces a sharp, bright, and percussive sound that adds a lively ambiance to typing. This crisp auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound with their keyboard interactions.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are distinctly smooth, providing an impeccable typing experience that allows for effortless keystrokes. The actuation seems to glide without any noticeable resistance, making it ideal for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches feature a unique combination of bounciness and creamy sensation. This gives users a lively, spring-like feedback that not only feels responsive but also provides a silky smoothness, enhancing the overall typing experience. The polished and silky characteristics further reduce friction, resulting in a refined and comfortable key press.
In summary, if you prefer a more subdued sound with a perfectly smooth feel, the Haimu Orange Sea switches may be better suited for you. In contrast, if you're looking for a lively auditory experience combined with a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches are an excellent choice. Ultimately, both switches provide their unique strengths, and your decision may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch should be guided by your personal preferences and typing context. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force and a smooth, neutral typing experience, the Haimu Orange Sea is an ideal option. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it easier on your fingers during long typing sessions, and it’s well-suited for environments where a quieter sound signature is desired. Conversely, if you enjoy a slightly firmer key feel and appreciate an engaging auditory experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro would be the better fit. With its 55-gram bottom-out force, it offers a lively, snappy sound that can enhance the enjoyment of typing. The Piano Pro’s bouncy and creamy characteristics provide a delightful tactile feedback, making it a great choice for both typing and gaming. Ultimately, assess how you intend to use your keyboard; whether for work, gaming, or general typing will determine which switch aligns better with your needs.
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