Outemu Phoenix vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch. The Phoenix is known for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a distinct feel and sound profile that is both crunchy and polished. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is designed with gamers in mind, offering smooth keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound and key advantages such as light actuation force and shortened travel distance. While these general descriptions may give you a starting point, let's dive deeper beyond these surface features to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Phoenix and the Akko V3 Silver Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it is translucent and allows light to shine through. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches ensures a clear and resonant sound experience, enhancing the overall typing feel for users.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. While the Phoenix utilizes polycarbonate in its bottom housing, the V3 Silver Pro opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a quieter and more subtle sound profile.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing the key. Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the Outemu Phoenix and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, providing users with a choice between sharper and crisper or deeper and fuller typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the V3 Silver Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. Additionally, the actuation force of the Phoenix is unknown, whereas the V3 Silver Pro requires 40 grams to actuate a keystroke. This means that the V3 Silver Pro offers a lighter typing experience compared to the Phoenix, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Phoenix provides a more substantial push feel with its higher bottom out force, making it a preferable choice for users who prefer a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces in a keyboard.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.3mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will receive a similar tactile experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. With this identical travel distance, both switches offer consistent typing feedback and actuation points, resulting in a comparable user experience in terms of keypress depth. Additionally, the similar travel distances of the Phoenix and V3 Silver Pro make them suitable choices for individuals who prefer a standard key travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a crunchy and crisp typing experience reminiscent of walking on autumn leaves, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched and sharp sound with each keystroke. The choice between the two depends on personal preference, with the Phoenix providing a more tactile and clicky experience and the V3 Silver Pro offering a smoother and bassier sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Phoenix switch is described as providing a polished and refined typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers an easy-to-press sensation with creamy and feathery qualities that reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to whether you prefer a sleek and polished feel or a smooth and buttery typing experience.
Taking into consideration all the available information, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a crunchy and tactile typing experience with a unique click mechanism, the Phoenix switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you value a smooth and effortless typing sensation with low actuation force, the V3 Silver Pro switch might be more suitable. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different types of users, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a unique, crystal-clear click sound and medium bottom out force, the Phoenix may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and a smooth, effortless keystroke experience, the V3 Silver Pro could be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and usage scenarios. It's important to test both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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