Outemu Cream Pink vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer unique features worth considering. The Cream Pink is known for its simplicity and straightforward linear actuation, making it a reliable option for those who prefer a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy sound signature and bouncy feel, providing a more lively and crisp typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
2.00 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
The Outemu Cream Pink and Akko V3 Piano Pro both feature nylon top and bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon material used in both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
However, while both switches share the same housing material, the design and structure of the switches may differ, leading to slight variations in feel and sound. The Cream Pink may have a slightly different texture or shape in its housing compared to the V3 Piano Pro, impacting the overall tactile feedback and auditory experience for users. These subtle differences can cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts, offering a unique typing experience with each switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cream Pink and Akko V3 Piano Pro share the benefits of nylon housing material, providing a similar deep and full sound profile for users. The differences in design and structure of the switches may result in slight variations in typing experience, offering users a choice based on their preferences. Whether you choose the Cream Pink or V3 Piano Pro, both switches offer a premium typing experience with the enhanced sound quality that nylon housing brings to the table.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch reveals some notable differences. The Cream Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 45 grams, making it better suited for those who prefer a firmer keystroke feel. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Pink requires 65 grams to fully press the key, while the V3 Piano Pro only needs 55 grams, indicating a lighter typing experience. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Cream Pink, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the V3 Piano Pro. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Cream Pink providing a more tactile experience and the V3 Piano Pro offering a smoother, lighter touch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Pink has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 3.5 mm. The Cream Pink offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's shorter travel distance offers a quicker response time, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking speed and precision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Cream Pink offering a longer travel distance and the V3 Piano Pro providing a shorter one.
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 Pink 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is well-known for its snappy and lively sound signature, creating a crisp and bright noise with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch does not have a specific sound characteristic attributed to it, leaving it open to individual interpretation. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material chosen.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy and creamy experience, providing a spring-like feedback with a smooth and buttery typing sensation. Additionally, the switch is polished, offering reduced friction and enhancing the overall smoothness of key travel. However, information on the feel of the Cream Pink switch is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch excels in providing a snappy and lively sound signature along with a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The Outemu Cream Pink switch, while lacking specific sound and feel descriptions, may still offer a comparable experience depending on individual preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel characteristics desired in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a switch with a quiet operation, the Cream Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a snappy, clacky sound signature with a smooth actuation, the V3 Piano Pro switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to test them out to see which one feels best for you.
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