Outemu Silver vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver 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 Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer a linear typing experience, but they cater to different preferences and needs. The Outemu Silver switch is best known for its None. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is specifically engineered for gamers, with features such as a light actuation force and shortened travel distance that can be advantageous in scenarios where every millisecond matters. The Akko V3 Silver Pro also produces a pleasing bassy sound with each keystroke. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the Outemu Silver may be more suited for general typing tasks, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro may be the preferred choice for gamers seeking a responsive and smooth typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Both the Outemu Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. Both switches feature a stiffer plastic top housing, leading to a clear and resonant sound. This similarity in material choice ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal from either switch.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Outemu Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing that same deep and full sound experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows both switches to offer a rounder and duller sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and Akko V3 Silver Pro, it's clear that the top and bottom housings play a crucial role in the overall sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp sound, their nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound. The split between the two housing materials ensures that users can enjoy a well-rounded sound profile that combines the best qualities of both plastics. Whether typing or gaming, users can expect a satisfying sound experience from either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Silver Pro is lighter in both aspects. The Outemu Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light in comparison. This means that the V3 Silver Pro will provide a lighter typing experience, suitable for those who prefer less resistance when typing for extended periods. In contrast, the Outemu Silver will offer a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who desire a stronger push feel for their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. This means that the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Silver. The shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Silver Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Outemu Silver may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preference for key response and depth.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silver switch is known for producing a sound that is currently unknown, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as high-pitched. High-pitched switches offer a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, providing a different auditory experience compared to switches with more bassy sound profiles. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can vary depending on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silver switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky. The easy-to-press attribute indicates that these switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable, particularly for longer sessions. The creamy, feathery, polished, and silky descriptions suggest a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and a luxurious feel to each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silver and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches offer distinct qualities for users to consider. While the sound profile of the Outemu Silver switch is unknown, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is known for its high-pitched sound. When it comes to feel, the Outemu switch lacks specific descriptors, whereas the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch provides a range of characteristics such as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky. Ultimately, users can expect different typing experiences from these switches based on their sound and feel preferences, but both switches are designed to enhance typing performance and comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not particularly concerned with specific gaming features, the Outemu Silver linear switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking a switch with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance to gain an edge in competitive gaming, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is the way to go. The V3 Silver Pro offers a smooth and effortless keystroke experience, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific preferences and requirements, but both switches provide unique advantages for different use cases.
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