Outemu Milk Tea vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu milk tea tactile switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, one can immediately see the differences in their characteristics. The milk tea is best known for being light in weight and smooth in feel. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is known for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, falling under categories such as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky. While the milk tea may appeal to those looking for a simpler, straightforward tactile experience, the Piano Pro switches offer a unique blend of auditory charm and smoothness that can enhance the typing experience. However, let's delve 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Milk Tea and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both feature nylon top housings, which give a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the Milk Tea's top housing is described as providing a brighter sound signature with resonant clacks, while the V3 Piano Pro's top housing offers a duller and rounder sound. This difference in sound characteristics can impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Milk Tea and the V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon for its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This commonality in housing material suggests that users can expect similar sound qualities when typing on both switches. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary between the two switches, affecting the overall tactile feedback and typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing material for switches such as the Outemu Milk Tea and the Akko V3 Piano Pro plays a crucial role in determining the sound signature and typing feel. While both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, the differences in how these materials are utilized result in varying sound characteristics. Whether a user prefers a brighter sound with resonant clacks or a duller and rounder sound, the housing materials of these switches contribute to the overall typing experience and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milk Tea has an unknown value while the V3 Piano Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a slightly heavier option. This means that while both switches have the same actuation force, the V3 Piano Pro will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the additional force required to bottom out. When considering weight, lighter switches like the Milk Tea are preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches like the V3 Piano Pro are chosen for a more tactile and substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and actuation force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5mm. The Milk Tea switch offers a deeper press, which some may find more satisfying and tactile, while the V3 Piano Pro switch provides a slightly shorter distance for a quicker response time. Gamers may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro for its shorter travel distance, while typists who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Milk Tea switch. Ultimately, both switches offer different travel distances that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference for keypress depth.
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 Milk Tea 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 Tea switch is known for its unique sound profile, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is recognized for its clacky and resonant characteristics. The Piano Pro switch offers a sharp and lively sound with each press, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. In comparison, the sound quality of the Milk Tea switch remains to be determined. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors including the keyboard, keycaps, and typing technique.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milk Tea is described as a specific, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel. The Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, a smooth and buttery typing experience, a refined finish for reduced friction, and an exceptionally smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the tactile feel of the Milk Tea switch is currently unspecified. The different feel profiles between the two switches cater to individual preferences and typing styles, providing a range of options for users seeking specific tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that appeal to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the specifics of the Milk Tea's sound and feel remain unknown, the Piano Pro switch is praised for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation. Depending on your desired sound and feel preferences, both switches provide distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Remember to consider other factors such as keycaps, keyboard construction, and personal typing style when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches will allow you to discover the perfect match for your typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a switch with a unique design and smooth tactility, the Milk Tea may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a snappy sound signature and bouncy feel, the V3 Piano Pro might be more up your alley. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so think about what qualities matter most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what will best suit your typing needs.
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