Outemu Purple vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch, and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, a linear switch. The Outemu Purple switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when the key is actuated. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch stands out for its snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. While the Purple switch offers a tactile typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro switch boasts a smooth actuation, ensuring a pleasant and responsive typing feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences, making them worthy options to consider for your mechanical keyboard. 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
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
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 Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, one key difference is the use of polycarbonate in the Purple's top housing versus nylon in the V3 Piano Pro's top housing. Polycarbonate creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. The top housing material of a switch can significantly impact the overall sound experience, with polycarbonate offering a more clear and resonant sound, and nylon providing a more muffled and dull sound.
Another point of comparison is the nylon bottom housings of both switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper sound profile. In both the Purple and the V3 Piano Pro, the bottom housing material contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The use of nylon in the bottom housing helps to create a fuller and more satisfying typing experience, highlighting the importance of both the top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound profile of a switch.
Overall, while the Outemu Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro differ in their choice of housing materials, both switches aim to provide a unique sound experience for users. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Purple offers a clear and resonant sound, particularly suitable for RGB lighting effects, while the softer nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound. When considering the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon to create a more muffled and rounder sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
The Outemu Purple tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple switch does not have a specified value while the V3 Piano Pro requires 55 grams of force to bottom out. This means that the V3 Piano Pro is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the unknown force of the Purple switch. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Outemu Purple tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple tactile 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 Purple switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Purple offering a bit more depth when pressed. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may prefer the Outemu Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel desired during typing or gaming sessions.
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 Purple 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 Purple switch doesn't have any specific descriptors provided, making it difficult to compare directly with the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch. However, based on the information available, the V3 Piano Pro switch is known for being clacky and resonant, producing sharp, snappy sounds that are bright and crisp. This gives the Piano Pro a lively and percussive auditory quality, which can be a defining characteristic for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound profile in their typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple switch lacks specific descriptors, making it challenging to directly compare with the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch. However, the Piano Pro switch is known for being bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a variety of tactile sensations for users to enjoy. The bouncy feedback provides a spring-like sensation, while the creamy feel offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. The polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the silky texture enhances overall smoothness and minimizes resistance during key presses.
Overall, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch stands out for its snappy and lively sound signature, coupled with a smooth and pleasing tactile experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Purple switch are not explicitly detailed, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel if they prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback and a variety of tactile sensations. Selecting between the two switches would ultimately depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a smooth and tactile typing experience with a focus on auditory feedback, the Outemu Purple switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy and lively sound signature along with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences and typing habits.
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