Akko CS Jelly Black

Switch Specifications:

Switch Type:	Linear
Mount Type:	Plate Mount
Travel Distance:	1.9mm Actuation | 4mm Total
Force:	50g Operating
Price:	~£11.00 (45 pieces)

The Akko CS Jelly Black is one of Akko’s heavy linear switches. They have stated that the “50gf actuation force with extension spring makes it the heaviest Akko CS switches.”

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Here’s the video review if you prefer watching content:

Smoothness: 7/10

On-centre keypresses are very smooth for some switches, but there are slight discrepancies between the smoothest and the scratchiest switches. It’s not huge and I can guarantee most folks won’t be able to spot it, but it’s there.

Off-centre keypresses aren’t too shabby either, but more than half of my sample showcase slight binding with some so “bindy” that they exhibit a weak tactile bump! However, many of these issues are only really noticeable when the switches are pressed slowly.

Overall, despite the issues I mentioned, these are smooth switches all around. I’d highly recommend them to anyone looking for a cheap, smooth and a heavier than average linear switch.

Akko CS Jelly Black switch disassembled.

Weighting: 6/10

According to the manufacturer, these switches have an actuation force of 50g at 1.9mm and a total travel of 4mm. So, nothing out of the ordinary here.

In terms of the actual key feel they are lighter than expected. Much lighter. They remind of the Gateron Black’s weighting, although these Akko switches have a different spring, so it’s not 100% the same, but they are similar.

In terms of consistency, they were consistent enough for me. They aren’t the most consistent performing switch as off-centre keypresses did bind in some cases, but they’re fine most of the time.

Although with that said, since they are on a lighter side, I didn’t exactly fall in love with them, not even after using them for 2 weeks, no.

Throughout the duration of my testing period, I just couldn’t bring myself to like them. I mean, they aren’t bad or anything, not even close; they just aren’t to my standards.

Overall, I’d recommend these to those who like the weighting of the Gateron Black or even the Gateron Yellow to a lesser extent as these Akko switches are closely weighted to both Gateron switches. However, I wouldn’t recommend these to those looking for a Cherry MX Black alternative as these are considerably lighter.

Sound: 7/10

CLACK. CLACK. CLACK. 100% clack. Clack all day! These are possibly the “clackiest” switches I’ve ever tested. Plus, they’re installed on an Aluminium case (with some dampening, mind you) so there’s no way you’ll escape the clack.

However, the switch installed in my “U” key has a slight ticking noise. It’s a very minor issue and I only noticed it after pressing all the keys individually.

Overall, they clack and I like that, but I do think it needs to clack a little more since there are hints of thinness in the sound, so it’s not perfect, but better than most.

Typing Performance: 7/10

Typing on these was…fine. Nothing too special, but nothing terrible.

I will say that some off-centre keypresses were annoying especially when pressed slowly as they have slight binding issues. This was uncommon occurrence, but it was annoying whenever it happened.

Additionally, the weighting isn’t to my ideal liking as I found it to be a little too light, but I didn’t completely hate it either. It was still better than say, Cherry MX Reds or Gateron Clears.

Overall, they’re a good switch for typing if you’re looking for a cheap, no-frills typing experience. Again, they’re nothing special, but they’ll get the job done. A Toyota Corolla in switch form, so to speak.

Gaming Performance: 8/10

These performed very well in many gaming environments which was to my expectations given my previous experience with Akko’s Lavender Purple switch.

However, unlike the Lavender Purple, these Jelly Blacks didn’t suffer from any “sticking” issues and I thought they were slightly smoother too, which is always a huge plus in this area.

Compared to similarly priced switches I’d say it’s on par with the Gateron Black, slightly below a few higher-end linears, but definitely above most MX clones. Basically, these incredibly well for their price point. I’ve no idea how Akko does it, but I’m impressed. Plus, these were packaged in a really nice box which more expensive switches like the Gateron Ink series don’t come in.

Overall, apart from the slight binding and weighting issues, I had no major problems with these. They’re smooth, very consistent and priced competitively compared to rivals. It’s a switch I could see myself gaming on honestly. If you’re a gamer, these are a great buy.

Final Score = 35/50 (70%)

 

Places to purchase this switch:

AliExpress | Akko | Amazon

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