Outemu Silver vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silver and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some distinct differences to consider. The Silver switch is best known for its smooth linear actuation, while the V3 Piano Pro is renowned for its snappy sound signature and lively, crisp keystrokes. The Silver switch is categorized as linear, whereas the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky. If you prioritize smoothness and simplicity in your typing experience, the Outemu Silver may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more vibrant and audibly engaging typing experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro could be your ideal choice. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 Silver and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, we see that the Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the V3 Piano Pro uses a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silver creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition. This contrast in top housing materials results in different auditory experiences for users, with the Silver offering a more clear and resonant sound, while the V3 Piano Pro provides a duller and rounder sound.
Looking at the bottom housing materials of the Silver and the V3 Piano Pro, we find that both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback, creating a consistent typing experience for users.
Overall, the difference in top housing materials between the Outemu Silver and the Akko V3 Piano Pro results in distinct sound profiles for each switch. While the Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar sound and feel when typing on both switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic preferences related to RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Silver has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams, making the Silver the heavier option. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of trigger force. The difference in bottom out force means that the Silver switch may offer a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's lighter bottom out force may be preferable to those who desire a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear 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 Silver linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro switch, offering a more traditional typing experience with a bit more depth to the key press. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch provides a shorter travel distance, which may appeal more to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may affect the feel of the key press for users with specific preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a longer or shorter travel distance for your typing or gaming needs.
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 Silver 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 Silver linear switch is known for its silence, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is recognized for its clacky and resonant sound profile. The Silver offers a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle keyboard noise. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch delivers a distinct and lively sound with its snappy and bright characteristics, adding an energetic flair to each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silver switch does not have any specific descriptors provided, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is known for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel. The V3 Piano Pro switch offers a spring-like feedback sensation that provides a lively bounce to each key press. Additionally, the creamy and silky attributes of the switch ensure a smooth and buttery typing experience, making it effortless to glide fingers across the keys. The polished finish of the switch adds to the sleekness of the typing experience, reducing friction and enabling smooth key travel.
Considering the subjective qualities mentioned above, it is evident that the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Silver switch provides a quieter typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro switch excels in delivering a lively and crisp sound signature along with a smooth and bouncy tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a linear switch with a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Silver switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a snappy, clacky sound with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, then the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics that align with your personal typing preferences and needs.
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