KTT Ash Gray vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both noticeable and satisfying, but not overwhelming. Its light touch coupled with a crisp actuation creates a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch stands out for its higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, offering a bouncy and polished typing experience. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', this switch is perfect for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a more unique typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
The KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, both keyboards differ in their bottom housings, with the Ash Gray featuring a nylon bottom housing, while the Lavender Purple Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The use of different bottom housing materials in the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro allows for a split in the qualities each material brings to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This means that despite both keyboards having similar top housings made of polycarbonate, the typing experience may vary slightly due to the difference in bottom housing materials. Nylon bottom housings are known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, offering users a different tactile sensation.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro share similar top housing materials in the form of polycarbonate, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The nylon bottom housing in both keyboards provides a unique sound profile that differs from the usual sharpness of the polycarbonate top housing. This allows users to experience a variety of tactile sensations based on whether they are pressing down or releasing a key. Ultimately, the combination of these different housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile of each keyboard.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force that is quite similar, with the Ash Gray at 53 grams and the Lavender Purple Pro at 55 grams. This means that the Ash Gray switch provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall, while the Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a slightly heavier push feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ash Gray switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may prefer the Lavender Purple Pro switch for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-light feel with slight variations in actuation force.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of medium travel distances, with the Ash Gray being a bit quicker to actuate compared to the Lavender Purple Pro. Gamers may prefer the Ash Gray for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate sound suitable for various settings, whether at home or in the office. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch's sound characteristics are unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Ash Gray switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, providing minimal resistance during typing for a comfortable and effortless experience, ideal for long typing sessions. The switch is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users. In comparison, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is noticeable but not overpowering. Additionally, it is noted for being bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds liveliness to typing. The switch is also characterized as snappy and polished, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ash Gray switch is more neutral and easy-to-press with a mild typing experience, the Lavender Purple Pro switch provides an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel for a more dynamic typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience based on their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a light touch with a subtle yet noticeable tactile response, the Ash Gray switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile and a more accentuated tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch might better suit your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider your individual needs and preferences when making your decision.
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