Kailh Berry vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities to consider. The Berry switch stands out for its hefty and springy typing experience, along with a chalk-like texture and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple Pro switch from Akko provides a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, leading to a delightful typing experience. While the Berry switch offers a textured and low-pitched feel, the Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized by its bouncy and polished nature. Each switch caters to different preferences and needs, making it important to explore further beyond these generalities to determine which switch is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the differences lie in their nylon bottom housings. The Berry's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing also provides a deeper and fuller sound but with a slightly different tone due to the specific production process.
One similarity between the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is their use of polycarbonate in the top housing. Both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as well as the ability to showcase RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. However, the switches diverge when it comes to their nylon bottom housings. The Berry's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile with a specific tone, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a similar depth and fullness but with its own distinct sound quality. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique typing experience due to the combination of their housing materials.
Overall, the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the overall typing experience. While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the variations in their nylon bottom housing contribute to distinct sound qualities. Whether choosing the Berry or the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, users can expect a unique tactile and auditory experience based on the combination of housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Berry switch has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams. The actuation force of the Berry switch is not specified, whereas the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it a lighter option compared to the Berry switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Berry switch. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Despite the slight difference in distance, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are popular for gamers seeking faster response times. While the Berry offers a slightly quicker feel due to its shorter travel distance, the Lavender Purple Pro provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference on the feel and responsiveness desired in a keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deep and mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch's sound profile is not specified, so it's difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry switch is characterized by a textured typing experience with a chalk-like texture, providing a unique tactile feedback that some users may prefer. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers an accented tactile bump that is not overly pronounced but still noticeable, along with a bouncy and snappy feel that adds to the typing experience. Moreover, the Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined key travel that reduces friction for a sleek typing experience.
Overall, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Berry switch provides a low-pitched sound and a textured typing experience, the Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile with an accented tactile bump and a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. If similar qualities are desired, choosing either switch with a compatible keyboard and keycap setup may yield comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a springy, chalk-like texture while typing, the Kailh Berry linear switch may be the best choice for you. This switch offers a deep sound profile and a sturdy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch would be a great option. This switch provides an accented, bouncy, and polished feel, making it a delightful choice for keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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