KTT Ash Gray vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Piano Pro are two options worth considering. The Ash Gray switch offers a tactile response that strikes a balance between a light touch and crisp actuation, providing a pleasant tactile feedback without feeling overwhelming. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch features a longer pole design that produces a snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke while maintaining smooth actuation. While the Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, the V3 Piano Pro switch is characterized as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on what you're looking for in a keyboard switch. 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
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Piano Pro feature nylon housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the Ash Gray utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro. This distinction in housing materials affects the overall auditory experience of typing on the switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to be more pronounced and vibrant, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing may not be as visually striking but contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the impact of this material on the typing experience remains consistent across both models, resulting in a deep and full sound that is characteristic of nylon housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Piano Pro shapes the sound profile and aesthetic characteristics of each switch. While both switches provide a deep and full sound experience due to their nylon bottom housing, the Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing adds a sharper and crisper element to its sound profile, contrasting with the duller and rounder sound produced by the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials contribute to unique typing experiences and appeal to different preferences in sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray is lighter with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Ash Gray may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Alternatively, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro for its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. While the differences in force may provide varying typing experiences, both switches offer a comfortable and responsive feel for users.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they offer a consistent and uniform typing experience in terms of how far down the key travels. This means that whether you choose the Ash Gray or the V3 Piano Pro, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel. Having a consistent travel distance can be beneficial for users looking for a familiar typing experience regardless of the switch they choose.
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 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 tactile switch offers a neutral profile that is suitable for various purposes, whether for beginners or advanced users. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a clacky and resonant sound that is sharp, bright, and immersive. The choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for a moderate sound profile or a more lively and percussive auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for activation. This results in reduced finger fatigue and enhanced typing comfort. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, creating a spring-like feedback sensation with smooth and buttery key presses. Users looking for a more lively and polished typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 switch.
In conclusion, while the KTT Ash Gray and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Those seeking a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press tactile feedback may find the KTT Ash Gray switch appealing, while users looking for a clacky and resonant sound with a bouncy and polished feel may prefer the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you prioritize a light touch with a pleasant tactile feedback, the Ash Gray switch with its easy-to-press and mild characteristics would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy sound signature and a bouncy, creamy typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and the feel you desire in a switch when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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