Outemu Brown vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer two distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Brown is a tactile switch with a subtle bump that provides feedback upon actuation, making it ideal for typists who prefer a more tactile response. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro features a linear switch design with the Piano Pro switches, known for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a pleasing typing experience for those who enjoy a lively and crisp feel. Each switch has its own benefits, with the Brown offering tactile feedback and the V3 Piano Pro providing a smooth and snappy key press. 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
53g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their advantages, the choice between them may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
On the other hand, when examining the bottom housing of these switches, both the Outemu Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, with its softer plastic absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when bottoming out a key, influencing the overall typing experience. With both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a similar sound profile and tactile feel when pressing down on the switches.
In terms of overall sound experience, the Outemu Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro showcase how different materials in the top and bottom housings can affect the sound profile of a switch. While the Brown's polycarbonate top housing leads to a sharper and crisper sound, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing means that users will notice variations in sound when pressing down and letting go of keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, the Brown has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the V3 Piano Pro. The Brown requires 53 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it's clear that the Brown has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 3.5 mm. The Brown switch provides a slightly deeper keypress, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches have their advantages, with the Brown offering a more traditional feel and the V3 Piano Pro catering to users who value speed and efficiency in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Brown tactile switch is known for its relatively quiet operation, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized by a clacky and resonant sound profile, which adds a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. If you enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying sound when typing, the V3 Piano Pro switches may be the way to go.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switch offers a subtle tactile feedback without being too pronounced, providing a gentle bump upon actuation. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch options include bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky descriptions, indicating a wide range of tactile experiences to choose from. Whether you prefer a more springy and elastic feel, a smooth and buttery sensation, a refined and polished touch, or an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro linear switches have options to suit various preferences.
In conclusion, the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brown switch provides a quieter and subtle tactile experience, the V3 Piano Pro switches deliver a snappy and lively sound signature along with a range of tactile sensations to choose from. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and a more subdued typing experience without added auditory flair, the Outemu Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, along with a snappy and lively sound signature that adds an extra dimension to your typing, the Akko V3 Piano Pro could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and force required for key presses. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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