Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, each offering distinctive typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Crystal Brown, with its tactile feedback, is designed for those who appreciate a noticeable bump during actuation, providing a reassuring response that many typists find satisfying for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro caters to users who enjoy a smoother, linear feel combined with a delightful sound signature; its long pole design delivers a lively, crisp quality that enhances the overall auditory enjoyment of each keystroke while maintaining a seamless actuation experience. While both switches have their merits—whether you lean toward the tactile feedback of the Outemu or the snappy sound and smoothness of the V3 Piano Pro—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

Akko V3 Piano Pro Linear

$3.10 per 10

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, a notable distinction emerges in their top housing materials, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Crystal Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when typing. This characteristic can enhance the clarity of keystrokes, especially when RGB lighting is involved, given the translucency of polycarbonate. Conversely, the V3 Piano Pro opts for a nylon top housing. Known for its softer nature, nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and thereby resulting in a more subdued auditory experience. This divergence in top housing materials highlights how sound characteristics can vary markedly, impacting user preference based on their auditory expectations during typing.

Both switches share nylon as a common material for their bottom housings, leading to similarities in their acoustic properties. In this aspect, both the Crystal Brown and V3 Piano Pro switch types produce a deeper and more rounded sound profile due to nylon's absorption capabilities. Since the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a keystroke, users can expect a level of consistency in the tactile feedback and auditory output from both switches' bottoms. This shared nylon construction for the lower half unifies their characteristics, despite the differences in the upper housing materials that predominantly dictate the sound produced upon key release.

Ultimately, the differences in the top housings between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro create a distinct typing experience, while their shared nylon bottoms foster a common ground in sound characteristics. Users who prefer a sharper, more resonant sound may gravitate towards the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top, whereas those who appreciate a warmer, more muted acoustic environment might prefer the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top. Despite the material variance at the top, both switches maintain a level of auditory cohesion due to the nylon bottom housing, allowing for a well-rounded performance that balances crispness with depth.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, both switches exhibit the same specifications for actuation and bottom out forces. Each switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing them as medium-light. This similarity in force characteristics means that users will experience comparable tactile feedback and keystroke resistance when typing or gaming. For those who appreciate a lighter touch, these switches are ideal as they ensure extended typing comfort and reduced fatigue during long sessions. Conversely, a preference for a heavier switch would lean users towards alternatives, as the actuation and bottom out forces of both the Crystal Brown and V3 Piano Pro are equal in weight.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we find that the Crystal Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Piano Pro measures 3.5 mm. This makes the Crystal Brown the longer switch, providing a more traditional depth that some users might prefer for a hearty key press feel. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro's shorter 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker responsiveness and faster key actions. Ultimately, those who favor a more pronounced tactile feedback would likely gravitate towards the Crystal Brown, while those who prioritize speed and a lighter touch might opt for the V3 Piano Pro.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch versus the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, the differences are quite prominent. The Crystal Brown's sound is less defined in description, but the V3 Piano Pro is characterized by its lively and snappy auditory feedback. The V3 produces a clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and resonant, giving a percussive sensation with each keystroke. This creates an immersive experience that enhances the act of typing, making it more engaging and responsive. The sound of either switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard construction and choice of keycaps, which may lead to a more personalized auditory experience.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown does not have specific descriptors provided, leaving an incomplete picture of its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro is celebrated for its enjoyable tactile attributes. It features a bouncy sensation due to its spring-like feel, providing a lively rebound on each press. The smoothness is enhanced by descriptors such as creamy, polished, and silky which suggest a refined and buttery typing experience. Users can expect a certain ease when their fingers glide over the keys, allowing for a more fluid typing motion that minimizes resistance and friction.

Overall, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch clearly stands out in both sound and feel, offering a dynamic auditory experience along with a luxurious typing sensation. The Outemu Crystal Brown lacks specific defining qualities in these areas, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison. Therefore, if you're after a tactile switch with robust audio and a delightful tactile response, the Akko V3 Piano Pro proves to be a superior choice. However, if the Crystal Brown meets your needs in ways not detailed here, it still may provide a satisfactory typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound and feel. If you appreciate a tactile feedback at actuation with a moderate bottom-out force and prefer a quiet typing experience, the Crystal Brown may suit you well. It's ideal for those who enjoy a balanced blend of responsiveness without excessive noise, making it appropriate for both work and gaming environments. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a more lively auditory experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches would be the better fit. With their clacky and resonant sound profile, they provide a more vibrant typing experience, complemented by a smooth, bouncy feel that adds an engaging element to each keystroke. If you enjoy a switch that is not only smooth but also delightfully snappy, the V3 Piano Pro offers a unique character that can enhance your overall typing experience. Therefore, consider how you prioritize sound and tactile feedback when making your selection, as it will greatly influence your enjoyment and comfort while typing.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Akko V3 Piano Pro Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more