Kailh Box White vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offer distinct experiences for users. The Box White switch is a clicky switch that is perfect for those who enjoy maximum audio feedback. With a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility, typing on these switches provides a unique tactile experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch known for its fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound signature. The smooth typing experience offered by the Crystal Pro switch adds to its appeal. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may suit 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
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who want a more distinct typing experience. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switches.
However, the Kailh Box White's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience, as it affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in the Kailh Box White and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro creates a unique typing experience. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the choice of nylon or polycarbonate for the bottom housing introduces variations in sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences, users may find one housing material more suitable for their typing needs.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch reveals some similarities and differences. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance when fully pressed. However, the Box White has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 48 grams. This means that the Box White requires a slightly heavier touch to register a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice due to its slightly lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Box White switch with its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking quicker response times. However, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the difference between the two travel distances is minimal, and either switch would provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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 White clicky switch is best suited for those seeking a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy typing experience, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. The sound profile of this switch is clean, sharp, and offers an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with a chirpy sound signature due to its fully polycarbonate construction. This material blend provides a bright and lively sound when typing, offering a unique acoustic experience compared to the Box White switch.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The switch offers reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with keys that have a lively feel. Additionally, like the Box White switch, the Crystal Pro switch also features a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a unique crunch and accented tactility for those who desire maximum audio feedback and a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provides a bright chirpy sound signature and a bouncy, spring-like typing feel due to its fully polycarbonate construction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box White clicky switch or the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a loud and tactile typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, as well as a polished feel with reduced friction, then the Box White switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a silky smooth typing experience and a bouncy feedback sensation, then the V3 Crystal Pro switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing styles, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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