SP-Star RedBlue vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique qualities to suit different preferences. The RedBlue is a linear switch known for its medium-light typing experience and low-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a smooth and relatively quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is also a linear switch but is specifically designed for gamers, offering a satisfyingly bassy sound with light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and efficient keystrokes. While the RedBlue excels in providing a comfortable typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro stands out for its gaming-focused features. 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star RedBlue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, providing them with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a clear and resonant sound output, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enhance sound quality in their mechanical keyboard switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for a visually appealing aesthetic, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing, while the V3 Silver Pro opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound output, providing a different typing experience compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the SP-Star RedBlue and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, their differing bottom housing materials – polycarbonate for the RedBlue and nylon for the V3 Silver Pro – create unique typing experiences. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during key presses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when keys are released. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the RedBlue switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is slightly heavier than the V3 Silver Pro's 45 grams. However, the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unknown, while the V3 Silver Pro requires 40 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. The difference in bottom out force suggests that the RedBlue switch may provide a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the V3 Silver Pro may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the RedBlue switch. The difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing or gaming experience for users. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the RedBlue switch. Despite the variance in travel distance, both switches offer a tactile feel when pressed, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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.
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 SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as having a low-pitched, neutral sound profile with a thocky tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow typing experience suitable for various situations. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp tone with each keystroke, particularly catering to gamers who prefer a more distinct auditory feedback. Factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound output of the switches.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is characterized by a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, ensuring approachability to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch boasts an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky feel, providing users with minimal resistance during key presses, a smooth and buttery typing sensation, and an exceptionally light touch for reduced finger fatigue and enhanced comfort during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to optimize typing efficiency and comfort through their unique tactile characteristics.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities tailored to different preferences and use cases. While the RedBlue switch emphasizes a low-pitched and mild typing experience, suitable for everyday use, the V3 Silver Pro switch specializes in a high-pitched and easy-to-press feel, ideal for gamers seeking precise and swift key response. Depending on individual preferences and requirements, users can select either switch to achieve similar results in terms of typing performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch may be the right choice for you. These switches offer a mild and polished feel, making typing smooth and refined. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a switch specifically engineered for gaming, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch with its light actuation force and pleasing bassy sound may be more suited to your needs. These switches provide an easy-to-press and creamy feel, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific use case for the keyboard switches.
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