Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, to the Akko V3 Silver Pro, a linear switch, there are distinct differences that set them apart. The Cream Yellow is best known for its tactile feedback, offering a satisfying bump upon actuation. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro stands out for its smooth linear feel, ideal for quick and precise keystrokes especially favored by gamers. While the Cream Yellow provides a pronounced tactile response, the V3 Silver Pro offers a quieter typing experience with a focus on speed and responsiveness. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, one significant difference is in their top housing materials. The Cream Yellow uses nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material results in a distinct typing experience for each switch, with the Cream Yellow offering a more rounded sound and the V3 Silver Pro producing a clearer and more resonant sound.
Although the top housing materials differ between the Cream Yellow and the V3 Silver Pro, both switches share a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that users can expect a comparable level of sound and tactile feedback when using either switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches such as the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience. While the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing provides a deeper sound profile, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar bottom-out sound and feel. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help users make an informed decision when selecting a switch that meets their preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we see that the Cream Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Cream Yellow is also heavier at 60 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro bottom out force is lighter at 45 grams. This makes the V3 Silver Pro the lighter option overall. The actuation force is essential for triggering keystrokes, and the bottom out force indicates the force required to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, the V3 Silver Pro would be the better choice. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Cream Yellow for its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect to experience a consistent travel distance when typing or gaming. With the travel distance being the same for both switches, users can achieve similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. The uniformity in travel distance between these two switches makes them both reliable options for those seeking a consistent typing experience. While other factors may differ between the two switches, such as actuation force and key feel, the travel distance remains a constant, ensuring a familiar typing experience for users of either switch.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch is best known for its quiet and subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed. While the Cream Yellow offers a more subtle typing experience in terms of sound, the V3 Silver Pro provides a more audible and satisfying feedback, especially for those looking for a sharper sound while typing. The ultimate sound experience will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch is known for its smooth and buttery typing experience, providing a creamy and feathery sensation with each key press. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers an easy-to-press feel with a light actuation force, making it ideal for gaming and rapid typing. The polished and silky nature of the V3 Silver Pro switch enhances the overall smoothness and comfort of typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Cream Yellow focusing on a buttery sensation and the V3 Silver Pro emphasizing ease of key activation and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow provides a quieter and smoother typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro delivers a more audible and effortless key press. Both switches cater to different preferences and usage scenarios, with the Cream Yellow excelling in subtle feedback and the V3 Silver Pro prioritizing speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and usage requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium bottom out force, you should lean towards the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking a light and easy-to-press switch with a high-pitched sound profile, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and use case scenarios to ensure the best possible keyboarding experience.
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