Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Outemu Yellow Silver both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Silver Pro is specifically designed for gamers, with its easy-to-press keys that produce a pleasing bassy sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is favored by both gamers and typists for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile. While the V3 Silver Pro excels in scenarios where speed is of the essence, the Yellow Silver provides a balance of speediness and responsiveness. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Outemu Yellow Silver, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the V3 Silver Pro features nylon while the Yellow Silver also incorporates nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart. The Akko V3 Silver Pro's bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, emphasizing a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing delivers a similar effect, enhancing the overall typing sound quality. While the differences in housing materials may slightly affect the sound profile and typing experience, the use of nylon in both switches ensures a level of consistency in delivering a fuller sound experience.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches showcase a thoughtful blend of materials to optimize sound profiles and typing experiences. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. Both switches offer a unique blend of materials that cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel, making them suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Silver Pro is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the Yellow Silver with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the V3 Silver Pro may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, whether it be for work or gaming. Meanwhile, the Yellow Silver's slightly heavier forces provide a more substantial push feel, catering to those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Silver Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch provides a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference for responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is best suited for users who prefer a high-pitched and crisp sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is more versatile and suitable for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, your choice of sound profile will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers a range of descriptors such as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, enhancing the typing experience with a light actuation force and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch. Therefore, it is recommended to try out the switches firsthand to determine which one provides the desired typing experience based on personal preference and typing style.
Overall, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches both offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a high-pitched sound and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and are looking for a versatile switch for various typing scenarios, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference, typing style, and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are a gamer looking for a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quicker keystrokes, the V3 Silver Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a slightly higher bottom out force, the Yellow Silver could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the V3 Silver Pro may cater more specifically to gamers while the Yellow Silver is a versatile option for both gaming and typing needs. Consider your priorities in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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