Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Piano Pro. The Cream Yellow switch is a tactile switch, known for its smooth and satisfying actuation. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch is a linear switch, appreciated for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation. While the Cream Yellow offers a tactile experience, the V3 Piano Pro provides a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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 Yellow and the Akko V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom parts of the switch. This means that typing on either switch will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches made of harder plastics. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. In terms of sound profile, the two switches are likely to offer similar experiences due to their shared housing material.
However, if the top and bottom housings were to differ between the Cream Yellow and the V3 Piano Pro, the qualities of each housing material would be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that any differences in housing materials between the two switches could potentially lead to variations in sound and feel during typing, especially in the moments when keys are pressed and released.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Piano Pro may come down to personal preference in terms of the overall typing experience. Both switches offer the benefits of nylon housing, such as a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, any potential differences in housing materials between the two switches could result in subtle variations in sound and feel that may appeal to different users. It is important for individuals to consider their own preferences when deciding between these two switches to ensure they choose the option that best suits their typing style and needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we see that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Cream Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while both switches may feel similar when initially pressing down, the Cream Yellow will require a slightly firmer push when fully depressing the key. The Cream Yellow would be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the V3 Piano Pro would be ideal for those who prefer a lighter bottom out force for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Akko V3 Piano Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Akko V3 Piano Pro offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Yellow 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 Cream Yellow switch is known for its unique qualities in sound and feel. While the sound profile of the Cream Yellow switch is not specified, the V3 Piano Pro linear switch is renowned for its snappy and lively sound signature, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch offers a tactile sensation that is not described, whereas the V3 Piano Pro switch boasts a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, ensuring a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance.
In conclusion, while the information provided showcases distinct differences in sound and feel between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is important to note that individual preferences play a crucial role in determining the ideal mechanical keyboard switch. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to diverse user preferences, with the V3 Piano Pro switch focusing on a snappy sound signature and a smooth tactile feel, while the Cream Yellow switch provides an unknown sound profile and feel. Experimenting with different switches on various keyboards and keycap combinations will ultimately allow newcomers to find the perfect match for their typing preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and a smooth typing experience, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, a snappy sound signature, and a bouncy feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch could be the better option. Consider your preferences for typing sound, feel, and actuation force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow and V3 Piano Pro will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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