Kailh Box Royal vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Royal and the Akko V3 Piano Pro. The Box Royal is renowned for its sharp and aggressive tactility, making it a great choice for those who crave a highly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is best known for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a more lively and polished typing feel. The Box Royal has a higher pitched sound profile, while the V3 Piano Pro offers a bouncy and clacky sound. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Akko V3 Piano Pro are both made of nylon, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In terms of sound characteristics, both switches are likely to produce similar results due to their shared nylon housing materials.
However, the differences may arise in how the top and bottom housings of each switch affect the overall typing experience. The qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing will influence the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction in the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings may result in slight variations in the overall typing feel between the Kailh Box Royal and the Akko V3 Piano Pro.
In conclusion, while both the Kailh Box Royal and the Akko V3 Piano Pro feature nylon housing materials that provide a deep and full sound profile, the way in which the top and bottom housings impact the typing experience may vary. The split of qualities between the top and bottom housings could result in differences in the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, while the housing materials are similar, the overall typing experience may have subtle distinctions between the two switches.
Weight
The actuation force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is the same at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force differs between the two switches, with the Box Royal requiring 70 grams and the V3 Piano Pro needing 55 grams. The Box Royal is heavier overall with both actuation and bottom out forces being higher, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is lighter with a lower bottom out force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming where a lighter touch is preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Box Royal offering a bit more depth compared to the V3 Piano Pro. Gamers might lean towards the V3 Piano Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key might find the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box Royal more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Royal 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 Box Royal offers a higher-pitched, sharp sound when pressed, delivering a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches are known for their clacky and resonant sound profiles, providing a crisp and lively typing sound. Depending on your preference for sound, the Box Royal's high-pitched sound may be more suitable if you enjoy a sharp and crisp tone, while the V3 Piano Pro's clacky and resonant sound may appeal to those looking for a bright and percussive typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal is characterized by its sharp and intense tactile feedback, offering a strong and prominent tactile bump with each keypress. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches provide a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, with a spring-like feedback sensation and smooth, buttery keystrokes. If you prefer a switch with a highly tactile and pronounced bump, the Box Royal's sharp tactile feedback may be more to your liking. However, if you enjoy a more springy and smooth typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro's bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky attributes may be preferable.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Royal excels in providing a sharp and high-pitched sound with intense tactile feedback, making it ideal for users seeking an aggressive tactile typing experience. Conversely, the V3 Piano Pro switches offer a lively and crisp sound signature along with a smooth and pleasant tactile feel, catering to those who prefer a more dynamic and polished typing sensation. By considering your preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between the Box Royal and V3 Piano Pro switches to achieve a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a sharp, aggressive tactile feedback with a high-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy, clacky sound with a bouncy and smooth typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro could be more suited to your liking. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you value most before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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