Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu dustproof red and the Akko V3 silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are notable differences to consider. The dustproof red switch is best known for its durability and resistance to dust, making it ideal for long-term use. On the other hand, the V3 silver Pro switch stands out for its specifically engineered design for gamers, offering a smooth keystroke experience with a pleasing bassy sound. While the dustproof red switch is categorized as durable, the V3 silver Pro switch is characterized by being easy to press, creamy, feathery, high-pitched, polished, and silky. Let's now delve 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
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches utilizing RGB lighting. The similarities in top housing material suggest that users can expect similar sound qualities and aesthetics from both switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro differ in material, with the Dustproof Red featuring a nylon bottom housing while the V3 Silver Pro has a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, polycarbonate in the bottom housing may result in a clearer and crisper sound profile. This distinction in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound and feel of the switches during typing.
When comparing the two switches, it's important to consider how the housing materials affect the sound and feel of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material will impact the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Silver Pro is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Red is heavier at 60 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 45 grams. This means that while the Dustproof Red may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, the V3 Silver Pro may be preferred by those looking for a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Dustproof Red offers a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro provides a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers for its quicker response times. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Dustproof Red being the longer option and the V3 Silver Pro being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Dustproof Red 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 Dustproof Red linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is characterized by its high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp noises with each keystroke. This difference in sound profile can cater to individual preferences, with the Dustproof Red offering a quieter typing experience and the V3 Silver Pro providing a more audible feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch's tactile feedback is known for its smooth and consistent actuation, offering a satisfying typing experience without any added resistance. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, providing a gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro switch is noted for its creamy and feathery typing feel, contributing to a smooth and low-impact typing experience. Overall, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers a responsive and comfortable typing feel, especially beneficial for prolonged gaming or typing sessions.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Red switch provides a quiet and subtle typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro switch delivers a more audible feedback with its high-pitched sound profile. In terms of feel, the Dustproof Red switch offers smooth and consistent actuation, while the V3 Silver Pro switch provides an easy-to-press and creamy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, with both options offering unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your priorities. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch that is versatile in its use, the Dustproof Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking a switch with a light bottom out force, reduced travel distance, and a pleasing sound profile, the V3 Silver Pro might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize factors such as force, sound, and feel in your typing experience. Choose wisely based on your individual preferences and requirements.
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