Bsun Cliff vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to finding the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that cater to tactile switch enthusiasts are the Bsun Cliff and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro. The Cliff switches are known for their medium tactility and crisp sound signature, appealing to those who appreciate a pronounced feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a delightful combination of features, including a higher-pitched sound profile complemented by a satisfying tactile bump, which creates an engaging typing experience. While the Cliff suits users looking for a balanced feel and clear auditory cues, the Lavender Purple Pro appeals to those who enjoy a more accented, bouncy, and polished typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro share a similar approach to the choice of their housing materials, utilizing polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. Both switches tap into the benefits of polycarbonate, which is known for its stiffness and translucency, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffer plastic allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for enhancing the overall acoustic experience. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly effective for RGB lighting configurations, ensuring that the light disperses beautifully through the switch housing, giving a visually striking effect when in use.
On the other hand, when considering the bottom housing, both switches rely on nylon, a material celebrated for its softer qualities. Nylon significantly alters the auditory character of the key presses by producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to nylon's sound-dampening properties, the sound generated while typing is less pronounced and has a rounder quality compared to switches with harder plastics. This deliberate choice creates a unique contrast between the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing and the deeper tones brought forth by the nylon bottom housing, effectively balancing the acoustic properties of each switch.
Ultimately, while the Bsun Cliff and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro employ the same materials, they are designed to work together to create a cohesive typing experience. The polycarbonate top enhances the light and clear sounds when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom influences the deeper sounds experienced during a key press. This combination ensures that users can achieve similar sound profiles across the two switches, offering a harmonious auditory experience. The effective use of these materials in both switches will appeal to users who prioritize a defined and enjoyable typing experience, reflecting the versatility and compatibility of these materials in mechanical switch design.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Cliff switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a favorable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, especially for prolonged use during work or gaming. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which offers a more substantial typing feel. Consequently, users who enjoy a stronger push may gravitate towards the Lavender Purple Pro due to its increased resistance. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purposes, the Cliff's lighter forces make it suitable for extended typing, while the Lavender Purple Pro caters to those seeking a more robust tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, the former features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the latter has a slightly longer distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Cliff the shorter option, which may provide a more responsive feel that gamers often prefer for quicker key presses. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more substantial feedback that some users find more satisfying during typing. Therefore, if you're inclined towards a switch that feels more abrupt and immediate, the Bsun Cliff would be the better choice. Conversely, if you appreciate a richer depth in your key presses, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro could be your ideal selection.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is characterized by a crisp sound signature that provides a clean auditory feedback during use. This composed timbre makes it a pleasing choice for typists who enjoy a pronounced sound without being too loud or distracting. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch features a higher-pitched sound profile, contributing to a more resonant and cheerful auditory experience. This switch also delivers distinct sound feedback thanks to its satisfying tactile bump. The difference in sound profiles might appeal to different users, with the Cliff offering a more grounded sound and the Lavender Purple Pro a lighter, more euphonious tone.
In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch boasts a medium tactility that strikes a balance between noticeable feedback and comfortable typing without overwhelming the user. It provides a straightforward typing experience that many might find easy to adapt to, serving well in various typing scenarios. Conversely, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is more intricately described. Its accented characteristics suggest a prominent tactile feedback that is defined yet not overly aggressive. The bouncy sensation adds a playful quality to key presses, promoting a lively typing experience. Moreover, its snappy and polished feel enhances the overall typing comfort, ensuring smooth key travel with minimal friction and an engaging responsiveness.
Taking all this information into account, both the Bsun Cliff and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switches cater to different preferences while still delivering enjoyable typing experiences. Both switches offer unique sound and tactile feedback, allowing users to find what best suits their typing style. While the Cliff emphasizes a crisp and medium tactile experience, the Lavender Purple Pro introduces a higher-pitched sound with engaging tactile qualities. Ultimately, your selection between these switches will depend on your personal sound preferences and desired level of tactile feedback during use.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, your choice should hinge on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you appreciate a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a medium tactile response with a crisp sound, the Cliff might be the perfect match for you, especially if you favor a more responsive and agile typing experience. This switch is ideal for fast typists or gamers who crave a snappy feel and a lively engagement with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump combined with a bouncier feel and a slightly higher actuation force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a delightful experience that balances smoothness with a satisfying feedback. Its higher-pitched sound profile can also enhance your typing atmosphere, making it a solid choice for enthusiasts who enjoy auditory cues along with tactile sensations. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the traits that resonate with your typing style and comfort, ensuring a satisfying and personalized keyboard experience.
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