Outemu Lotus vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus, a linear switch, and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, also a linear switch, are two popular options to explore. The Lotus is best known for its unique characteristics and falls within the category of linear switches, while the V3 Piano Pro stands out for its Piano Pro switches that deliver a snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to typing. The switches are categorized as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky, emphasizing a smooth actuation and pleasing tactile experience. Each switch offers its own set of advantages, making them appealing choices for different preferences. 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
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
Both the Outemu Lotus and the Akko V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings, resulting in similar deep and fuller sound profiles when typing on the switches. The softness of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, creating a rounder and duller sound overall. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience across both switches, with a focus on providing a satisfying sound profile for each keystroke.
While both switches share the same housing material, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings may impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of the switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall feedback when typing on the keyboard. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key, contributing to the overall auditory experience of using the switch. Despite these differences, the nylon material ensures a certain level of similarity in terms of sound profile and typing feel between the Outemu Lotus and the Akko V3 Piano Pro.
In conclusion, the nylon housing of both the Outemu Lotus and the Akko V3 Piano Pro provides users with a consistent and satisfying typing experience. While the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings may slightly impact the overall sound profile and typing feel, the similarities in material ensure that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feedback. Ultimately, the use of nylon as the housing material for these switches contributes to a deep and fuller sound profile, making them both excellent options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a tactile typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we can see that the Lotus is lighter in both aspects. The Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Lotus a lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Lotus would be the better choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the V3 Piano Pro may be more appealing due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. The Lotus switch may provide a slightly more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for gaming scenarios where quick reflexes are crucial. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch's slightly longer travel distance might offer a more deliberate and substantial key press, appealing to those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. In general, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and both would likely provide a similar typing experience with only subtle variations.
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 Lotus 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 Lotus linear switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant qualities. The clacky sound produced by the Piano Pro switch is sharp, snappy, and percussive, adding a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Lotus switch's sound profile remains unknown, so it may be challenging to predict how it compares in terms of auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lotus linear switch lacks a description, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel. The bouncy sensation provided by the Piano Pro switch gives a spring-like feedback and a lively feel to each keystroke. The creamy and silky attributes offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. The polished finish of the switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, contributing to a sleek typing experience. Without a detailed description of the Lotus switch's feel, it's challenging to make a direct comparison to the tactile qualities of the Piano Pro switch.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Lotus and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches may vary in terms of sound and feel based on the provided information, it's essential to consider personal preferences when selecting a switch. If both switches are similar in sound or feel, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of auditory and tactile experience. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches and considering factors such as switch design, keycaps, and typing style can help you find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, you should consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter key press, the Lotus with a 50-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly more tactile experience with a 55-gram bottom out force and a snappy sound signature, the V3 Piano Pro could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel and sound when typing.
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