Outemu Lotus vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, both offer a smooth keystroke experience. The Lotus switch is praised for its unique characteristics, while the V3 Silver Pro is specifically engineered for gamers with features like an easy-to-press feel, creamy keystrokes, and a pleasing bassy sound. The Lotus switch falls under the category of linear switches, while the V3 Silver Pro is categorized as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, high-pitched, polished, and silky. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro may be more appealing to gamers due to its light actuation force and shortened travel distance. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that when typing on switches from either keyboard, you can expect a deep and fuller sound profile due to the nature of nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. The duller and rounder sound produced by nylon bottom housings contributes to a comfortable and quieter typing experience overall.
However, where the two keyboards differ is in the material used for their top housing. The Lotus utilizes nylon for its top housing, which results in a similar sound profile to its bottom housing, providing a consistent and cohesive typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro incorporates polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in housing materials leads to a more distinct and varied sound when typing on the Akko V3 Silver Pro compared to the Outemu Lotus.
In terms of aesthetics and performance, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housings in the top housing of a switch can impact factors such as sound profile and RGB lighting capabilities. The clear polycarbonate top housing of the Akko V3 Silver Pro allows for a more vibrant and pronounced RGB lighting effect, adding a visual element to the typing experience. Meanwhile, the nylon top housing of the Outemu Lotus may not offer the same level of visual appeal but can still deliver a comfortable and consistent sound profile that some users may find more pleasing. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen by each keyboard manufacturer cater to different preferences and priorities in keyboard design and functionality.
Weight
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 45 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience overall, with the Lotus being slightly lighter in actuation force but heavier in bottoming out force. Depending on personal preference, some may find the Lotus more suitable for extended typing sessions due to its lower actuation force, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation of the V3 Silver Pro for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when using either of these switches, you can expect a consistent feel and key press experience in terms of the distance traveled from top to bottom. Both switches offer a similar tactile feedback and actuation point despite the slight differences in design and brand. Overall, whether you choose the Lotus or the V3 Silver Pro, you can be assured of a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 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 switch's sound profile is currently unknown, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is known for its high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a richer and bassier sound, the Lotus may offer a different auditory experience. However, sound is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the Outemu Lotus switch's tactile feedback is undisclosed, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is recognized for its easy-to-press characteristic. This feature makes typing effortless and comfortable, especially for long typing sessions, ultimately enhancing the overall typing experience. The V3 Silver Pro switch is also described as creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, all contributing to a smooth and refined typing sensation that reduces finger strain and fatigue.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of sound and feel between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch differ based on available information, it is essential to consider personal preferences when choosing between these two switches. If you enjoy a high-pitched and crisp sound with a smooth and buttery feel, the V3 Silver Pro switch may be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a different sound profile and are seeking specific tactile feedback, the Lotus switch could provide a unique typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand will help determine which one best suits your typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose Outemu Lotus linear switches or Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and do not have a specific preference for sound or feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro may be the better choice, especially if you are a gamer looking for a responsive and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bit more tactile feedback and have no specific preference for gaming, the Outemu Lotus linear switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it is important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
