Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Cream Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to note the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its smoothness and unique poppy and clacky sound, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking high-quality performance. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow switch is designed to deliver a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. While both switches offer appealing features, such as their bouncy feel, clacky sound, and smoothness, each switch may 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Cream Yellow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, the differences in the bottom housings of the two switches come into play when typing on them. While the V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, the Cream Yellow also boasts a nylon bottom housing with similar sound characteristics.
When it comes to the tactile and auditory experience, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Cream Yellow plays a significant role. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound, as the softer plastic material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic creates a duller and rounder sound profile that is unique to nylon housing materials. Despite the differences in the top housings of the two switches, the nylon bottom housings provide a consistent typing experience that is both tactile and pleasing to the ear.
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Cream Yellow contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound that is absorbed by the softer plastic material. The division of qualities between the top and bottom housings results in a unique tactile and auditory experience for each switch, showcasing the importance of housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Cream Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium. The weight difference in force can result in a different typing experience for users. Some may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro for a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the Cream Yellow for a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Cream Yellow's 3.5 mm. This means that the Cream Black Pro will provide a slightly faster response time when typing or gaming due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, may prefer this switch for its quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and bright auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its clacky, sharp, and snappy sound, providing a percussive and lively typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the V3 Cream Black Pro leaning towards a higher pitch and the Cream Yellow emphasizing a clacky tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the overall sound profile desired.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Cream Black Pro boasts a creamy and smooth typing experience, thanks to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch. This results in a silky sensation while typing, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke. Additionally, the V3 Cream Black Pro is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback and a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch also offers a bouncy feel, giving keys a lively rebound when pressed. While the Cream Yellow lacks the creamy sensation of the V3 Cream Black Pro, its bouncy feedback adds a fun and energetic element to typing.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro excels in providing a high-pitched and smooth sound coupled with a creamy typing experience, while the KTT Cream Yellow focuses on delivering a clacky and bouncy sound profile. If you enjoy a sharper and crisper sound accompanied by a silky typing sensation, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy feedback while typing, the Cream Yellow switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer great options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound and smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, bottom out force, or a combination of these factors. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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