Huano Sakura vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Sakura and the Akko V3 Silver Pro stand out as two excellent linear options, each with its own distinct characteristics. The Huano Sakura switches are renowned for their feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making them perfect for those who appreciate a comfortable typing experience, especially during extended sessions. They strike a balance between responsiveness and subtle sound, appealing to typists who seek both speed and a touch of auditory satisfaction. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro caters specifically to gamers with its engineering focused on rapid response. These switches allow for quick, effortless keystrokes and produce a pleasant bassy sound, complemented by a light actuation force and shortened travel distance—features that can enhance performance in competitive gaming situations where every millisecond counts. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on your primary use, whether that be typing or gaming. 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
35g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Sakura and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches, we see distinct differences in the construction of their top housings. The Sakura utilizes POK material, renowned for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK allows for a smoother keystroke than the Akko V3 Silver Pro, which features a polycarbonate top housing with a coefficient of friction that is not specified but is generally known to be firmer. POK's impressive wear and shock resistance contribute to its overall durability, resulting in a switch that is not only smooth but also robust over time. Contrastingly, the polycarbonate housing of the Akko V3 Silver Pro is designed to create a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile due to its inherent stiffness. This difference in acoustic qualities indicates that while each switch may provide a tactile experience, the nuances of sound will diverge based on their top housing materials.
Both the Huano Sakura and the Akko V3 Silver Pro share the same nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This similarity implies that users will experience consistently rounded auditory feedback regardless of the top housing material. With nylon's soft plastic properties absorbing sound effectively, both switches will provide a richer typing experience at the bottom-out moment. While the top housing material influences the initial sound when releasing the key, the nylon bottom housing serves as a collective foundation, ensuring that the fundamental deep sound quality remains consistent between both models. Consequently, the shared characteristics of the bottom housing allow for the retention of specific auditory traits, serving as a stable base in contrasting top housing scenarios.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials accentuate their unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Huano Sakura’s POK top housing allows for smoother and more durable performance, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro’s polycarbonate housing enhances clarity and resonance, making each switch suitable for varying typing preferences. However, due to the shared nylon bottom housing, users can expect a substantial overlap in the deeper sound characteristic, creating a familiar auditory experience. Therefore, even though the top and bottom materials differ, the cohesive qualities of nylon make for a similarly satisfying bottoming-out experience in both switches, showcasing how diverse materials can complement one another in a keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while their bottom out forces remain the same. The Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams, compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams. However, both switches share an identical bottom out force of 45 grams, meaning that regardless of the actuation force, they will provide a similar feel when hitting the keys all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Sakura is the more appealing choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, users who like a stronger push feel may find the Akko V3 Silver Pro more satisfying due to its higher actuation force. Overall, while both switches offer a lightweight bottom out experience, the actuation force differences cater to distinct typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Huano Sakura linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Sakura measuring 3.6 mm and the V3 Silver Pro at 3.3 mm. Consequently, the Huano Sakura offers a longer travel distance, which might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced feel when pressing their keys, lending itself to a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro, with its shorter 3.3 mm travel distance, may be better suited for gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. While both switches provide distinct tactile experiences, those who favor a shallower travel distance will find the V3 Silver Pro more responsive, whereas the Sakura targets users who enjoy a slightly more substantial key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Huano Sakura and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches, each offers a distinct auditory experience. The Sakura switch features medium acoustics, striking a balance that makes it suitable for longer typing sessions without causing undue distraction. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is engineered to produce a pleasing bassy sound, which not only enhances the overall auditory feedback during gameplay but also adds an enjoyable depth to each keystroke. It's important to recognize that the sound produced by either switch can be influenced by the specific keyboard housing and keycap material, but generally, the Sakura offers a more subdued tone suitable for quieter environments, whereas the V3 Silver Pro's bassy response may appeal more to those in gaming or more dynamic settings.
In terms of feel, the Huano Sakura switch stands out with its feather-light touch, providing minimal resistance which is ideal for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It promotes a comfortable typing experience, particularly for users who spend long hours at their keyboard. The Akko V3 Silver Pro, additionally, captures a range of feel descriptors: it is easy-to-press, creamy, and polished. The light actuation force and reduced travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro facilitate effortless key presses, making it particularly appealing to gamers who prioritize quick response times. Its smooth and silky response enhances the overall experience, allowing for a gentle glide across keys that further reduces strain and maximizes comfort during continuous typing or gaming.
In conclusion, while both the Huano Sakura and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches offer light actuation forces and friendly feels, their sound profiles and tactile experiences cater to slightly different preferences. The Sakura excels in delivering a balanced acoustic experience for extensive typing, making it perfect for office or casual use, while the V3 Silver Pro leans towards an immersive gaming-friendly sound with various tactile qualities that elevate gameplay. Users will find satisfaction in either, depending on whether they prioritize acoustic subtlety or pronounced auditory feedback combined with a responsive tactile sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch primarily depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a gentle touch and a comfortable typing experience suited for long sessions, the Sakura is an excellent choice. Its lightweight actuation and medium acoustics cater well to those who find themselves typing or working for extended periods, making it a solid option for writers and professionals alike. In contrast, if your primary focus is on gaming performance, the V3 Silver Pro stands out with its engineered design for rapid keystrokes and a reduced travel distance. This switch is tailored to gamers who need quick and responsive feedback with every action, all while delivering a pleasing bassy sound. Ultimately, if you find yourself balancing both tasks or leaning more towards casual use, you might prefer the Sakura for its comfort. However, if every millisecond counts—especially in competitive gaming scenarios—the Akko V3 Silver Pro is likely to be your best bet. Each switch offers unique benefits, so consider your usage context to make the right decision.
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