Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique features worth exploring. The Semi-Silent Linear is praised for its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound, providing a smooth typing experience categorized as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, boasting effortless keystrokes and a pleasing bassy sound, with advantages like light actuation force and shortened travel distance, ideal for competitive gaming, and categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Creamy', 'Feathery', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', and 'Silky'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Akko V3 Silver Pro are quite similar, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a more resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. While the top housings of both switches are the same, the nylon bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear differs from the V3 Silver Pro's bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer properties, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Akko V3 Silver Pro differentiate themselves with their choice of bottom housing material. The Semi-Silent Linear's nylon bottom housing provides a different typing experience compared to the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, the softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound when typing. This contrasts with the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of both switches, creating a unique typing experience that combines the best of both materials.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings impacts not only the sound profile but also the feel of the switch when pressed. The bottom housing material, such as nylon in the Semi-Silent Linear, influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material, like polycarbonate in both switches, affects the sound when releasing a key. By carefully selecting housing materials that complement each other, keyboard enthusiasts can achieve a balanced typing experience that combines the best qualities of different plastics for an optimal typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered to be of a medium weight. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the V3 Silver Pro switch lighter compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear with its heavier bottom out force may be the ideal choice. In contrast, individuals who prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation force for your keyboard usage.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is 3.7 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 slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Both switches offer a different feel and performance based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing which one is better suited for individual needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
In terms of sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments without being too loud. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch produces a high-pitched sound that can be sharp and crisp, catering to those who prefer a brighter sound profile. Depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound of each switch can vary, so it's essential to consider the overall setup for the desired auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience. These qualities combine to offer a smooth and effortless typing sensation that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, emphasizing a light actuation force and a smooth, low-impact typing feel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through different mechanisms, with the Semi-Silent Linear focusing on a balanced and refined feel, while the V3 Silver Pro prioritizes ease of use and comfort.
Overall, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and use cases. The Semi-Silent Linear excels in providing a quiet yet clacky sound profile coupled with a silky smooth typing experience, appealing to users looking for a balanced and refined feel. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro prioritizes a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, ideal for gamers and those seeking a responsive and comfortable typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results, albeit with distinct characteristics tailored for specific needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that provides a subtle and quiet typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great choice. Its medium bottom out force and subdued sound profile make it suitable for various settings, whether you are at home or in the office. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a switch that offers quick actuation and a light typing experience, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is the way to go. With its light actuation force and creamy feel, this switch is designed for those who need rapid keystrokes in gaming scenarios. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preferred typing experience and the environment in which you will be using them.
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