Outemu Milk Blue vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Milk Blue is a clicky switch with a crisp tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy the satisfying click sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is a linear switch specifically designed for gamers, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke with a pleasing bassy sound. While the Milk Blue may appeal to those who value audible feedback, the V3 Silver Pro's light actuation force and shortened travel distance make it ideal for competitive gaming where speed is of the essence. 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Blue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, we can see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Milk Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the V3 Silver Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering the same benefits in terms of sound profile.
While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials bring unique characteristics to the overall sound profile of each switch. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a distinct feel and sound experience when typing on these switches. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound. This combination of materials ensures a well-balanced typing experience, with each housing material playing a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Ultimately, when comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Blue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is clear that both switches offer unique advantages based on their specific material choices. The polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and clear sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more noise. The combination of these materials in each switch results in a well-rounded typing experience, with each housing material contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch in their own distinct ways. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with a polycarbonate top housing or a fuller sound with a nylon bottom housing, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force for the V3 Silver Pro is 45 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. The Milk Blue is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the V3 Silver Pro, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Milk Blue for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option. The Milk Blue provides a more traditional and deeper key press experience, while the V3 Silver Pro offers a shallower press for a potentially faster response time. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro for quick actions, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Milk Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for travel distance and key press 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 Milk Blue 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 Milk Blue switch is known for its distinctive clicky sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is recognized for its high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp sounds that may appeal to gamers looking for a different auditory experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, as the Milk Blue offers a more traditional clicky sound while the V3 Silver Pro delivers a unique high-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, the Milk Blue switches are praised for their tactile feedback and audible click, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are described as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and low-impact typing sensation ideal for prolonged gaming or typing sessions. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing experience, but the Milk Blue focuses more on tactile feedback while the V3 Silver Pro emphasizes light actuation force and smooth key travel.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, users can expect different auditory and tactile experiences. The Milk Blue offers a traditional clicky sound and tactile feedback, ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. Meanwhile, the V3 Silver Pro provides a high-pitched sound profile and a smooth, low-impact typing sensation, catering to gamers seeking a responsive and effortless keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, your choice should be based on your preference for typing experience and usage scenario. If you enjoy a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Milk Blue switch would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal actuation force, the V3 Silver Pro switch is the way to go. Ultimately, consider your typing style, desired sound, and level of actuation force needed to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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