KTT Ash Gray vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro offer distinct features to cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying tactile response without being too overwhelming, making it easy to press and mild in sensation. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, offering a smooth and polished experience. While the Ash Gray excels in delivering a light touch with crisp actuation, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality performance. 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
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
Both the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. This material is known for its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. As a result, users can expect a distinct typing experience with a focus on sound quality when using either of these switches.
On the other hand, the Ash Gray utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the V3 Cream Black Pro also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This difference in bottom housing material adds a unique touch to the overall typing experience for each switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro distinguishes the typing experience. Despite the differences in the bottom housings, both switches are likely to deliver comparable results in terms of sound quality, thanks to the similar properties of the polycarbonate top housings. The combination of these housing materials ensures that users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback from either switch.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ash Gray requires 38 grams to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro demands 55 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a medium-heavy switch. While both switches provide a different typing experience due to their force requirements, those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Ash Gray, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the V3 Cream Black Pro. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for the user.
Travel distance
The Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Ash Gray has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing experience. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Ash Gray, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional keyboards, so users can expect similar results in terms of speed and efficiency.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 KTT Ash Gray tactile switch will provide a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press sensation with gentle resistance and minimal force required for activation. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the mild tactile feedback of the Ash Gray switch falls in a safe middle ground, appealing to various preferences. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch provides a creamy and smooth typing experience, thanks to lubrication or specific materials. The bouncy and snappy nature of these switches give a lively and responsive feel, while the polished finish enhances the overall typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound and an easy-to-press feel with mild tactile feedback, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch delivers a high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy, and polished typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, tailored to your specific sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a pleasant and customized typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a balanced tactile feedback, the KTT Ash Gray switch would be a great choice. It offers a smooth typing experience with easy-to-press keys, making it ideal for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-pitched, sharp sound profile, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch would suit your preferences. Its creamy, bouncy, and polished feel provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a lively and responsive feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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