Outemu Tom vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Tom switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with each keystroke. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch stands out for its snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to typing. The Piano Pro switches also offer a smooth actuation, ensuring a pleasing tactile experience. While the Tom switch may appeal to those who enjoy a tactile bump, the V3 Piano Pro switch is ideal for those who appreciate a snappy sound and smooth keystrokes. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The Outemu Tom and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both use different materials for their top and bottom switch housings. The Tom features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This difference in top housing materials will affect the overall sound experience when typing on these switches, with the Tom providing a crisper sound and the V3 Piano Pro offering a more rounded sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, both the Outemu Tom and the Akko V3 Piano Pro use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softness absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, despite the switches having different top housing materials, the bottom housing of both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches when pressed.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Tom offers a sharper and clearer sound, while the nylon top housing of the Akko V3 Piano Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound. Whether you prefer a crisper, high-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, the housing materials of these switches will ultimately impact your typing experience and the overall aesthetic of your keyboard setup.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch reveals some key differences. The Tom has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's lighter 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Piano Pro requires a heavier 55 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the V3 Piano Pro offers a lighter actuation but a heavier bottom out force, providing a different typing experience compared to the Tom. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the V3 Piano Pro for extended typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Tom. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we can see that the Tom has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times. For gamers looking for a fast and responsive typing experience, either switch would provide similar results. However, for those who prefer a bit more depth and cushion when typing, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch with its longer travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience one is looking for.
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 Tom 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 Tom switch is known for its quiet operation, lacking any specific sound signature or notable characteristics. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is renowned for its snappy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. The Piano Pro switch also offers a resonant quality, adding to the immersive nature of the sound produced. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Tom is not specifically noted for any tactile qualities. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. These descriptors indicate a switch that provides a spring-like feedback, a smooth and buttery typing experience, reduced friction with smooth key travel, and an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance. The Piano Pro switch ensures a pleasant tactile experience with each key press, offering a range of sensations for the user to enjoy.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Tom switch focuses more on a quiet and perhaps unobtrusive operation, the Piano Pro switch stands out for its lively and snappy sound along with a variety of tactile sensations. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Tom offering a subtle and quieter option while the Piano Pro delivers a more engaging and tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Tom tactile switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it's important to take into account your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a light actuation force and a more muted sound profile, the Outemu Tom tactile switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a medium-light actuation force and a snappy, clacky sound signature, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to the tactile feedback and sound you prefer while typing. With the information provided, you can now make an informed decision based on your individual preferences.
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