Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Sunset Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, creating a lively and crisp typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow switches provide a rich and bassy sound profile that immerses users in an indulgent typing session. While the V3 Piano Pro is described as bouncy and clacky, the Sunset Yellow is categorized as bassy and thocky. Both switches have their own appeal and reasons for consideration, 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
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Sunset Yellow both use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The V3 Piano Pro features nylon top and bottom housings, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow utilizes POM top and bottom housings, which produce a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. While both housing materials aim to enhance sound quality, they do so in distinct ways.
In terms of sound characteristics, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon housing material is said to create a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM housing of the Sunset Yellow, which offers a more muted overall sound profile. The difference in sound quality between the two housing materials may appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Additionally, the impact of each housing material on typing experience may vary, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound upon key release.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Sunset Yellow, they both prioritize enhancing sound quality by utilizing unique materials for their top and bottom housings. While the V3 Piano Pro's nylon housing aims for a deeper and fuller sound, the Sunset Yellow's POM housing offers a more muted and unique sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for keyboard sound and feel, each housing material provides a distinct typing experience that caters to specific preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch both fall into the category of medium-light switches, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter actuation force. The V3 Piano Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sunset Yellow's 43 grams, although both switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams and 51 grams respectively. This means that the V3 Piano Pro may provide a slightly more tactile typing experience compared to the Sunset Yellow, which could be preferred by users who enjoy a bit more resistance while typing. However, both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, making them ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may become a factor. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the desired typing feel and force required for a satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Piano Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Sunset Yellow's 3.2 mm. While the difference may seem subtle, it can have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Generally speaking, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance like that of the Sunset Yellow can offer quicker response times, which is favored by gamers looking for speed and precision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 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 Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, producing sharp and snappy sounds with a higher pitch that adds an immersive auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches provide unique sound experiences, with the V3 Piano Pro offering a crisper and brighter sound, while the Sunset Yellow delivers a deeper and richer tone.
In terms of feel, both switches share the creamy descriptor, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. The V3 Piano Pro offers a bouncy and silky sensation, with a lively and elastic feedback when pressed. In comparison, the Sunset Yellow switch offers a creamy and frictionless feel, with an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience that minimizes resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Both switches aim to enhance the overall smoothness of typing, allowing fingers to glide across the keys with ease.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch each have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the V3 Piano Pro offers a snappier and more resonant sound with a bouncy and silky feel, the Sunset Yellow provides a deeper and richer sound along with a creamy and frictionless typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve a satisfying and indulgent typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you prioritize a snappy and lively sound signature with smooth actuation, along with a bouncy and creamy typing feel, then the V3 Piano Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a rich, bassy sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, along with a distinct gliding feel and a combination of short travel and long-pole stem for sharp and highly responsive typing, then the Sunset Yellow might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that best complement your typing style and preferences.
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