Outemu Cream Blue vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the Akko V3 Piano Pro stand out as popular options. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is a linear switch known for its snappy sound signature, providing a lively and crisp quality to typing. While the Cream Blue offers a traditional clicky feel, the Piano Pro switch stands out for its smooth actuation and pleasing tactile experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Cream Blue and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them quite similar in terms of material composition. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a similar deep and fuller sound profile due to the softness of nylon plastic which absorbs more sound. The duller and rounder sound produced by both switches can be attributed to the properties of nylon as a housing material, creating a consistent typing experience for users of either switch.
While the housing materials for both the Cream Blue and V3 Piano Pro switches are the same, the housing design may vary between the two models. The qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the sound and feel when bottoming out a key. This means that while the sound profile and typing experience may be similar due to the nylon material, the design of the housing can slightly influence the overall typing feel and sound of the switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches play a significant role in creating a unique typing experience for users. Both switches feature nylon housing that contributes to a deep and full sound profile, with the softness of the material absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound. While the top and bottom housings may have differing impacts on the typing experience, the overall result is a consistent and satisfying sound profile that typists may appreciate in either switch.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch reveals some differences in weight. The Cream Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. Users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the V3 Piano Pro, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cream Blue. It is essential to consider personal preferences and intended use when choosing between these two switches, as weight can significantly impact typing comfort and endurance. Ultimately, selecting the right switch can lead to a more enjoyable and efficient typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Cream Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro. The 4 mm travel distance of the Cream Blue is more traditional, offering a deeper press feel, while the 3.5 mm travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro provides a slightly shallower press. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial key press may opt for the Cream Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Cream Blue 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 Cream Blue clicky switch is known for providing a unique auditory experience that is crisp and possibly even resonant, depending on the keyboard and keycaps used. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is recognized for its distinctive clacky sound signature, adding a lively and snappy quality to each keystroke. Both switches offer a satisfying sound profile, but the Cream Blue may lean towards a higher-pitched, resonant sound, while the V3 Piano Pro leans towards a sharper, clacky sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Cream Blue switch does not have specific descriptors available, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is known for being bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. The Cream Blue switch's feel remains a mystery, leaving room for individual interpretation, while the V3 Piano Pro switch is praised for providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a bouncy and spring-like feedback sensation. The polished and silky aspects of the V3 Piano Pro add to a sleek and refined typing feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both switches offer unique and desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Blue clicky switch excels in providing a potentially resonant and crisp sound, while the V3 Piano Pro linear switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and smooth, bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, both switches can offer a pleasurable typing experience, making it likely that users will obtain similarly positive results with either choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch that provides a tactile bump with a satisfying click, the Cream Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and value a smooth, bouncy feel with a clacky sound signature, the V3 Piano Pro could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences.
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