Outemu Cream Blue vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and Akko V3 Silver Pro offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch that is best known for its tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is a linear switch designed specifically for gamers, offering a smooth keystroke experience with a pleasing bassy sound. While the Cream Blue provides a satisfying click for typists who enjoy auditory feedback, the V3 Silver Pro offers a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, ideal for gamers seeking precise and quick key inputs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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
The main difference between the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro lies in the fact that the Cream Blue features a nylon top housing while the V3 Silver Pro uses a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Cream Blue creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of its stiffer plastic construction, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetic wise, the V3 Silver Pro's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, giving it a visually distinct appeal compared to the Cream Blue.
On the other hand, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile as a result of the softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the differences in the top housing materials of the Cream Blue and V3 Silver Pro will still have a noticeable impact on the overall sound and feel of the switches. When typing on these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
In terms of performance, the choice between a nylon top housing (Cream Blue) and a polycarbonate top housing (V3 Silver Pro) ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. While both housing materials offer their own unique characteristics and qualities, the decision may be influenced by factors such as the desired sound profile, aesthetics, and compatibility with RGB lighting. Overall, whether you opt for the Cream Blue or the V3 Silver Pro, the top and bottom housing materials will work together to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Blue requires a heavier touch. The Cream Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is lighter in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro for a smoother typing experience, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Cream Blue. Both switches have different weight profiles, making them suitable for different preferences, with the Cream Blue offering a more substantial typing feel and the V3 Silver Pro providing a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Cream Blue has a slightly longer travel distance, offering a traditional feel with a bit more depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for quick response times. Both switches offer distinct benefits, with the Cream Blue providing a more pronounced keypress feel and the V3 Silver Pro offering a snappier response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is known for a balanced sound profile, providing a satisfying click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is renowned for its bassy and pleasing sound, giving a deeper and more substantial tone. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound, the V3 Silver Pro would be the better choice, whereas the Cream Blue offers a more traditional clicky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Blue switch provides a tactile typing experience with a noticeable bump upon actuation. In comparison, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers a smooth and easy-to-press feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. The Cream Blue switch delivers a responsive feedback with a slight resistance, while the V3 Silver Pro switch provides a lighter actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable.
Overall, if you enjoy a clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Outemu Cream Blue switch would be a suitable option for you. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a smoother actuation and low impact feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing you to achieve a satisfying typing experience based on your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a unique feel, the Cream Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force, smooth keystrokes, and a pleasing bassy sound, the V3 Silver Pro would be a great option, especially for gaming where quick and effortless key presses are essential. Ultimately, your decision should come down to your personal typing preferences and the specific use case for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
