Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is a linear switch, celebrated for its smooth actuation and snappy sound signature that adds a lively touch to typing. While the Dustproof Purple provides a classic clicky experience, the V3 Piano Pro offers a more subdued and polished typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing for different reasons. 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
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, one noticeable difference is in the top housing. The Dustproof Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. These differences in top housing materials lead to distinct sound characteristics for each switch.
While the top housings of the Dustproof Purple and the V3 Piano Pro contribute to their unique sound profiles, the bottom housings show similarities between the two switches. Both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing of the switches suggests that when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical switch plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Purple creates a clearer and more resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro generates a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a consistent attribute by enhancing the overall sound profile with their sound-absorbing properties. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch contributes to their unique sound signatures and typing feel.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Dustproof Purple has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a medium-light feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro would be the better choice, as it allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Dustproof Purple would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is 3.5 mm. This means that the Dustproof Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro. The longer travel distance of the Dustproof Purple may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and deeper keystrokes, which some users may prefer for a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro may appeal to users looking for faster response times, especially gamers who require quick key presses. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distance, so users can choose the one that best suits their preferences and typing style.
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 Dustproof Purple 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer different auditory experiences. The Dustproof Purple switch is known for a sound profile that is not explicitly defined, leaving much to personal interpretation. On the other hand, the Piano Pro switch is highlighted for its clacky and resonant characteristics, producing a sharp, snappy sound that can be described as lively and percussive. Depending on your preference, the Dustproof Purple may provide a more subtle sound, while the Piano Pro offers a more pronounced and distinct auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Purple switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches also diverge. The Dustproof Purple switch's tactile sensation is not specified, leaving its feel open to individual interpretation. Conversely, the Piano Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing a range of tactile experiences. With the Piano Pro switch, you can expect a spring-like feedback, a smooth and buttery typing sensation, reduced friction for a sleek typing experience, and exceptionally smooth key travel with minimal resistance. This variety of tactile qualities offers a customizable typing experience for users seeking different levels of feedback and smoothness in their switches.
Taking into account the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches, it is evident that they offer distinct subjective qualities for users to consider. While the Dustproof Purple switch lacks clear descriptions for sound and feel, the Piano Pro switch provides a snappy, clacky sound with a smooth and bouncy, creamy, polished, or silky tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more understated and undefined experience with the Dustproof Purple or a vibrant and dynamic typing experience with the Piano Pro switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a unique characteristic, the Dustproof Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and value a snappy sound signature with smooth actuation, the V3 Piano Pro could be the better option. Consider how the sound and feel of each switch align with your typing preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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