Mechanical Keyboards: Is Akko linear switch a bang for the buck purchase?
Switches are the mechanisms under the keycaps on a mechanical keyboard that enable you to type faster and more precisely. Different brands and companies manufacture various mechanical keyboard switches loved by the community. The biggest names in the market are Gateron, Outemu, and Kailh, all of which are in China. Again, let’s not forget the list the enthusiast-grade switches of Akko who is also from China. They take pride in their custom switches, like their linear switches that are available at a low price.
Akko has been making its name known in the keyboard switch industry. It has won the hearts of keyboard enthusiasts for producing premium quality mechanical keyboard switches. It is the perfect switch for gamers, writers, and enthusiasts for a quality key switch that won’t break the bank. Indeed, you can definitely find the perfect switch for your needs because of their wide range of options. We will be focusing on Akko’s linear switches, but you can read more about other switches.
Distinct Features of Akko Linear Switches
Akko Linear switches are based on costume series known as Akko Custom Series (CS). These are custom switches made to obtain more satisfying typing feelings because of their 3-pin. Their products are developed especially for enthusiasts who are into DIY modifications for a more satisfactory typing and gaming process.
The CS has a more stringent quality control standard compared to Akko V2 switches because it is equipped with a unique progressive coil spring. The spring in the CS switches gives a distinct and unique typing experience. They have built-in LED slots that are ready for LED Assembly/mod and are compatible with SMD (LED underneath the switch). Laboratory testing shows that these switches have an approximate lifespan of 60 million keystrokes. These switches are compatible with the MX-style structure and mostly fit with the (x) cross-shaped stem. Additionally, most of the Akko linear switches have 22mm springs while activation force ranges between 35-53gf.
Since the linear switches provide a steady and smooth typing experience without the tactile bump present in other mechanical switches, it is preferred. It can undeniably compete with brands such as Cherry MX brown or blue switches. Akko’s best linear switches are available in different colors, actuation forces, pretravel, and prices.
Akko CS Linear Switches
- AKKO CS Snow Blue Grey features a light 43g actuation force, 50g bottom-out force, and a 5-pin PCB mount.
- Akko CS Air linear switches feature a light 48g actuation force and a 3-pin plate mount
- Akko CS Sakura linear switches feature a light 39g actuation force, 3-pin plate mount, and transparent top switch housing.
- Akko CS Wine Red features a light 43g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and a transparent top switch housing.
- Akko CS Silver features a light 45g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and transparent switch housing.
- Akko CS Jelly Black features a medium 50g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and transparent black switch housing.
- Akko CS Jelly Pink features a light 45g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and a transparent pink switch housing.
- Akko CS Jelly White features a light 35g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount ad a transparent switch housing.
- Akko CS Starfish features a medium 50g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and a transparent top switch housing.
- Akko CS Vintage White features a light 35g end force and a transparent clear top housing.
- Akko CS Radiant Red features a medium 53g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and a transparent clear top housing.
- Akko CS Matcha Green features a 50g medium actuation force and a transparent clear top housing,
- Akko CS Rose Red features a light 50g actuation force and a transparent clear top housing.
The other Akko CS Crystal Series
- Akko CS Crystal Silver linear mechanical keyboard switches feature a light 45g actuation force and a 3-pin plate mount.
- Akko CS Crystal Wine Red linear mechanical keyboard switches feature a light 45g actuation force and a 3-pin plate mount.
- Akko CS Crystal Blue linear switches feature a light 40g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and transparent switch housing.
- Akko CS Crystal linear switches feature a light 43g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and transparent switch housing.
List of other switches
- Akko Haze Pink features a light 43g actuation force and a 3-pin plate mount.
- Akko POM Pink features a light 45g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and transparent switch housing.
- Akko POM Silver features a light 43g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and transparent switch housing.
- Akko x TTC Demon features a medium 50g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and a transparent top switch housing.
- Akko x TTC Princess features a light 45g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and a transparent top switch housing.
- Akko x Gateron Pink features a light 45g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and a transparent pink top housing.
- Akko x Gateron Yellow features a medium 50g actuation force, a 3-pin plate mount, and a transparent clear top housing.
The Verdict
Akko has shown its versatility in the keyboard market. It offers diverse lineups not only in its custom keyboards, but also in other accessories like keycaps, and switches. Their self-designed switches have certainly gained ratings and reviews from customers.
To sum it up, my personal experience with Akko CS Jelly black has been consistent and smooth even when stocked or lubed. It has good balance, speed, and accuracy. Some users may feel that Akko linear switches feel less consistent or smooth. However, my experience proves otherwise because I have not experienced problems like sticking or ghosting. Overall, every switch from Akko is a bang for the buck purchase.
