Outemu Red vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red, and the Akko V3 Silver Pro are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Red is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is specifically designed for gamers, offering a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and precise movements. The Red switch is categorized as [], while the V3 Silver Pro is categorized as ['Easy-to-press', 'Creamy', 'Feathery', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky']. Both switches have their own unique advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
46g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
The Outemu Red and Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency. With both switches sharing this housing material, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when using the switches in their keyboards.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Outemu Red uses nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a more substantial sound profile. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a deeper sound when using their keyboards.
Overall, the different housing materials used in the Outemu Red and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches showcase how each material can impact the sound profile and feel of a switch. While both switches share similar polycarbonate top housings that enhance the sharpness and clarity of the sound, the nylon bottom housings offer a contrasting experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether users prefer a crisper sound with the Red or a richer sound with the V3 Silver Pro, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Red switch has a higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro's lighter 40-gram actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Outemu Red requires 62 grams to fully press a key, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro only needs 45 grams. These variations mean that the Outemu Red switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro offers a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience for extended periods. Individuals who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Akko V3 Silver Pro, while those looking for a more tactile and heavier typing experience might prefer the Outemu Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we can see that the Red has a travel distance of 4mm, while the V3 Silver Pro has a travel distance of 3.3mm. This makes the Akko V3 Silver Pro the shorter of the two switches. The traditional travel distance is around 4mm, so the Outemu Red falls into that category. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Outemu Red. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in selecting the ideal switch for your typing or gaming needs.
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 Red 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 Red linear switch is known for being relatively quiet and lacking any distinctive sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is described as producing a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed. This difference in sound can add a unique auditory experience to your typing or gaming sessions, depending on your personal preference.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch does not have a specific description available. However, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers a range of desirable characteristics. It is described as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky. These qualities collectively enhance the typing experience by providing a smooth, low-impact, and responsive feel. The light actuation force of the V3 Silver Pro switch makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions.
Overall, if you prefer a quieter and more discreet typing experience, the Outemu Red switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer or typist looking for a switch that offers a high-pitched sound and a variety of tactile feels such as creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch would be a great choice. In both cases, the switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and you can expect similar results in terms of performance and durability from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and intended use. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a versatile switch without any specific gaming-focused features, the Outemu Red may be the better choice for you. However, if you are a gamer seeking a light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and a switch engineered specifically for gaming, the Akko V3 Silver Pro would be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns better with your typing preferences and gaming needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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