HMX Cheese vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct qualities that set them apart. The HMX Cheese switch offers an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch stands out as a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound, combined with impressive smoothness. While the HMX Cheese excels in providing a light and ultra-smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro offers a balance of quality and affordability. 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
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile with both switches producing a deeper and fuller sound due to the softness of nylon. However, the Cheese differs from the V3 Cream Black Pro in its top housing material, which is made of nylon. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This contrast in materials highlights the potential for a different typing experience between these two switches.
Additionally, the aesthetic differences between the Cheese and the V3 Cream Black Pro are also worth noting. While both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its clear polycarbonate top housing. This translucent material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing choice for those looking to customize their keyboard setup. In comparison, the Cheese's opaque nylon top housing may not offer the same level of customization options, but it still provides a unique sound profile that nylon is known for.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. Those looking for a deeper and fuller sound profile may lean towards the Cheese with its nylon top and bottom housings. On the other hand, users who prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile, along with the option for RGB lighting, may find the V3 Cream Black Pro more appealing with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, showcasing the diversity in housing materials available in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is lighter in both aspects compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the V3 Cream Black Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cheese make it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier forces of the V3 Cream Black Pro provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feedback and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro's 3.3 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances popular in the market today, the slight variation between the two can make a noticeable difference in feel and response. Gamers seeking a faster response time may lean towards the V3 Cream Black Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Cheese to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each individual user is seeking in their keyboard experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $4.29.
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, creating a unique typing experience that is light and pleasant on the ears. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch provides a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Cheese offering a more distinctive and lighter sound, while the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a sharper and crisper auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is lauded for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, making each keystroke a joy to input. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the feel of the V3 Cream Black Pro are not provided. However, based on the information given for creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished switches, we can infer that the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a bouncy and snappy sensation, as well as a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches seem to prioritize a smooth typing experience, but the V3 Cream Black Pro may provide a bit more bounce and responsiveness compared to the Cheese.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cheese excels in providing a light and satisfying sound signature, along with unparalleled smoothness in typing, while the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its high-pitched sound profile and smooth, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter and more distinctive sound with a smooth typing experience, the Cheese may be the better choice. However, if you appreciate a sharper and crisper sound with a smoother, bouncier, and more responsive feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro could be the switch for you.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the HMX Cheese if you prioritize a light typing experience with a satisfyingly clacky and smooth sound profile. The Cheese switch with its 46-gram bottom-out force offers a unique feel that is lighter than most switches. On the other hand, choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro if you prefer a medium-heavy touch with a creamy and bouncy feel. With a bottom-out force of 65 grams, these switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a distinctive poppy sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
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