Bsun Avocado vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Avocado and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro present themselves as distinct options catering to different preferences. The Bsun Avocado is a tactile switch that offers a unique typing experience with its snappy and buttery tactile bump, providing satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro stands out as a linear switch, featuring a polycarbonate construction that gives it a bright and chirpy sound signature, paired with a silky smooth typing feel. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, enhancing clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboards. However, the Avocado's use of nylon for its bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller, rounder sound compared to the crisper sound of polycarbonate.
While both the Avocado and V3 Crystal Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the V3 Crystal Pro differs by also incorporating polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This results in a consistent sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile throughout the keyboard, as polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound. However, the Avocado's use of nylon for its bottom housing creates a contrasting deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer and sound-absorbing properties. The difference in bottom housing material between the two keyboards may result in a varied sound experience when typing, with the Avocado offering a duller sound while the V3 Crystal Pro maintains a crisper tone.
In conclusion, the use of different housing materials in the Bsun Avocado and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro impacts the sound profile and typing experience of each keyboard. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile, the Avocado's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's consistent crisp sound due to its polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards will depend on the desired sound profile and typing experience, with the Avocado offering a softer sound and the V3 Crystal Pro providing a more consistent and crisp tone.
Weight
Comparing the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, the Avocado has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 48 grams, making the Avocado easier to trigger keystrokes with. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Avocado is heavier at 65 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams. This means that while the Avocado may have a lighter initial feel, it requires more force to fully press down the key. Both switches fall within the medium weight category, with the Avocado leaning towards medium-heavy and the V3 Crystal Pro towards the medium end. Depending on personal preference, some may appreciate the lighter actuation force of the Avocado for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the V3 Crystal Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch. This means that the Avocado requires slightly less travel to actuate compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. Gamers and users looking for a faster response time may prefer the Avocado due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their smooth actuation and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The Akko V3 Crystal 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 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Bsun Avocado switch offers a mild, neutral sound signature that complements the tactile typing experience it provides. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch is known for its bright and chirpy sound, which adds a unique acoustic element to the typing session. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can enjoy a subtle and smooth sound with the Avocado or a more distinctive and lively sound with the V3 Crystal Pro.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is described as having an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile response. This means users can expect a tactile bump that is pronounced but not overwhelming, providing a satisfying typing sensation. In contrast, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished feel, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. Individuals who enjoy a more tactile and responsive feel may lean towards the Avocado, while those looking for a smoother and elastic typing experience might prefer the V3 Crystal Pro.
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado and Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Avocado provides a neutral sound with pronounced tactile feedback, the V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its bright and chirpy sound paired with a smooth typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, making them suitable choices depending on individual preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality and tactile typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Avocado tactile switch or the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, pronounced tactility, and a buttery downstroke, then the Avocado switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, a bright and chirpy sound signature, and a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro switch would be the way to go. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to consider what type of typing experience you enjoy before making your decision.
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