Outemu Gold vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold 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 Gold and Akko V3 Piano Pro offer unique experiences for users. The Outemu Gold switch is a clicky switch best known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro features linear Piano Pro switches that are characterized by their smooth actuation and snappy sound signature. While the Gold switch provides a classic, clicky typing experience, the Piano Pro switch offers a more refined and smooth keystroke. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Gold and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, we can see that the Gold utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softness and sound absorption capabilities. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Gold provides a more resonant and clear sound, whereas the nylon of the V3 Piano Pro creates a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Gold and the V3 Piano Pro make use of nylon as the material. This choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches, as nylon's softness absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The similarities in bottom housing materials mean that the sound and feel when bottoming out a key will be similar between the two switches. However, the differences in their top housing materials will influence the sound produced when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate of the Gold offering a clearer sound compared to the nylon of the V3 Piano Pro.
Overall, while the Outemu Gold and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, the differences lie in the sharpness and clarity produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold versus the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro. Additionally, the shared nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar experience when bottoming out keys on both switches. Understanding how each housing material affects sound profiles allows for a more informed decision when choosing between these two switches based on personal sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force is the same for both at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Outemu Gold switch is 60 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Outemu Gold switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a slightly lighter touch. While both switches have the same actuation force, the slight difference in bottom out force results in different typing experiences for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with some preferring a lighter touch for extended typing sessions and others favoring a heavier feel for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Gold switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more traditional and deeper feeling when typing. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or users looking for quick response times. Both options have their advantages depending on personal preference - the Gold switch for a deeper and more satisfying typing experience, and the V3 Piano Pro switch for a faster and more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's typing style and desired feel when using the keyboard.
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 Gold 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 Gold switch is known for its unique characteristics, with a sound profile that is not specifically defined in the provided information. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is recognized for its snappy and lively sound signature. Described as "clacky" and "resonant," the Piano Pro switch produces a sharp and percussive sound that adds a crisp and bright quality to each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Gold switch potentially providing a different sound profile that may cater to different preferences.
In terms of the feel, the Outemu Gold switch lacks a specific descriptor for its tactile qualities. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is noted for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky sensations during typing. These descriptors highlight the smooth and buttery typing experience, reduced friction, and spring-like feedback that the Piano Pro switch offers. While the feel of the Gold switch remains unspecified, the Piano Pro switch provides a range of tactile experiences that cater to users looking for a specific type of key feel.
Overall, comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch reveals distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Gold switch may offer a unique sound profile and tactile experience that is not detailed in the provided information, the Piano Pro switch stands out for its snappy sound signature and bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to customize their typing experience accordingly. Ultimately, both switches offer potential for satisfactory results depending on the user's specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is important to consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier key press with medium bottom out force, and are not particularly focused on sound characteristics, the Outemu Gold clicky switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter key press with a snappy and lively sound signature, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch with its medium-light bottom out force and bouncy, creamy feel may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel, sound output, and overall typing experience.
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