KTT Ash Gray vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is renowned for its tactile feedback, striking a balance between a light touch and a crisp actuation. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch is designed with gamers in mind, offering smooth keystrokes and a pleasing sound profile. While the Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'easy-to-press' and 'mild', the V3 Silver Pro switch boasts characteristics such as 'creamy', 'feathery', and 'high-pitched'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and specific needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switches. Despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in design and color may appeal to different aesthetics preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ash Gray and V3 Silver Pro incorporate nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. This choice in housing material emphasizes the tactile experience of typing on these switches, providing users with a satisfying sound and feel with each keystroke. While the top housing may affect the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Silver Pro lie in their aesthetics and design choices, as both switches offer similar sound profiles and tactile experiences. While the polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing complements it by delivering a deeper and fuller tone. Whether users prefer a sharper sound profile with RGB lighting (Ash Gray) or a more classic typing experience with a deeper tone (V3 Silver Pro), both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray requires a lighter touch overall. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating that it is a lighter switch overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the V3 Silver Pro, while individuals who enjoy a slightly more substantial push feel may lean towards the Ash Gray. Both switches offer different levels of feedback and keypress resistance, so users should consider their personal preferences when selecting between the two. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and feel of each switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, the Ash Gray has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular for their quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro for its faster key presses. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt and prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Ash Gray for a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch is considered neutral, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound, producing sharp and crisp tones when pressed. The choice between the two depends on personal preference, with the Ash Gray offering a more versatile sound experience while the V3 Silver Pro delivers a distinct high-pitched sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Ash Gray and V3 Silver Pro share the characteristic of being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation. The Ash Gray is described as easy-to-press and mild, providing a gentle typing experience with low impact. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro offers a creamy, feathery, polished, and silky feel, enhancing smoothness and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Depending on individual preferences for typing feel, users can choose between the gentler typing experience of the Ash Gray or the smooth and buttery sensation of the V3 Silver Pro.
Considering the sound and feel factors, newcomers to mechanical keyboards should consider their preferences for sound profile and typing experience when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch. If a moderate, neutral sound with gentle resistance is desired, the Ash Gray switch would be more suitable. However, if a high-pitched, creamy, and exceptionally smooth typing experience is preferred, the V3 Silver Pro switch would be the better option. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in determining which switch would provide the ideal typing experience for each individual.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile response that strikes a balance between noticeable feedback and ease of actuation, the Ash Gray may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom out force, a focus on gaming performance with smooth keystrokes and a high-pitched sound profile, the V3 Silver Pro could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing or gaming style and the specific characteristics that will enhance your overall typing or gaming experience.
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