Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Red Panda are both popular choices in the mechanical keyboard community, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out for its budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality. With a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile and smooth tactile sensation, these switches provide a lively and audible feedback that many users enjoy. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda offers a different typing experience with a light-medium amount of tactility and a bassier bottom-out sound. While the Red Panda is known for its thocky and mild characteristics. When it comes to choosing between the two, it ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The key difference between the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches lies in their top and bottom housings. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro boasts a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. The Red Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Red Panda differ in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, contrasting with the sharpness of the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing also enhances the typing experience by absorbing sound and creating a fuller sound. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch allows each component to shine in different aspects of the typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches offer a unique typing experience with their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for distinct keypress feedback. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Red Panda adds depth and fullness to the sound, balancing out the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a stiffer plastic for clear resonance or a softer material for a rounder sound, both switches provide a combination of qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Blue Pro is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, with 45 grams and 55 grams respectively, while the Red Panda is slightly heavier with 50 grams and 60 grams. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions, while the Red Panda provides a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier force. Both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out force, ensuring a balanced typing experience for users. When choosing between the two, individuals should consider their preference for lighter or heavier force based on their typing habits and comfort level.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switches have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar level of travel. The tactile feedback and actuation point may differ between the two switches, but in terms of travel distance, they are equal. This makes it easier for users to switch between keyboards with these different switches without experiencing a significant difference in keypress feel based on travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
The Outemu Red Panda 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 Cream Blue Pro offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda provides a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying. The choice of board and keycaps can also play a role in the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming yet still noticeable. These switches offer a lively and smooth typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Red Panda is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Red Panda offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Blue Pro excels in its distinct sound profile and smooth, medium-tactile feel, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a thocky sound and a mild, approachable feel that may appeal to users looking for a more gentle typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying results in terms of sound and feel when paired with the right keyboard and keycap combination.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter key press, opt for the V3 Cream Blue Pro with a bottom out force of 55 grams. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Red Panda with 60 grams might be more suitable for you. Additionally, think about the sound and feel characteristics that align with your typing preferences. If you enjoy a poppy and clacky sound profile with smooth tactility, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is a great choice. Conversely, if you prefer a thocky sound with a mild typing experience, the Red Panda may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences and typing style.
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