Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Kang White both offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its affordability without compromising on quality, boasting a poppy and clacky sound with exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White impresses with its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. While the Akko switch is categorized as creamy, high-pitched, bouncy, snappy, and polished, the Kang White is labeled as low-pitched and neutral. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, offering a variety of experiences for users. 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
45g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Kang White both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that use RGB lighting, as it allows for light to shine through. While both switches share this top housing material, they also both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Although the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Kang White share similarities in their top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of these materials can affect the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, are more noticeable when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distribution can lead to a unique typing experience for each switch, as the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in different areas of the housing can result in distinct sound profiles and key feel.
In conclusion, despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Kang White may still offer slightly different typing experiences due to the distribution of these materials. The sharper, crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing may be more pronounced in one switch compared to the other, while the deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing may also vary in intensity. Ultimately, both switches provide unique sound profiles and key feels that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Kang White. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Kang White only requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 58 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Kang White, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may choose the V3 Cream Black Pro for a stronger push feel. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, so selecting the one with the appropriate force for individual preference is essential for a comfortable typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Kang White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Kang White switch provides a deeper keystroke experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who desire a more substantial tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the V3 Cream Black Pro offering a shorter travel distance for faster response times, and the Kang White providing a longer travel distance for a more pronounced keypress feel.
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 Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched and sharp sound profile, creating a distinct and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone, providing a mellower sound when typing. Depending on personal preferences, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be more suitable for those who enjoy a sharper and more distinct typing sound, while the Kang White may cater to individuals who prefer a smoother and more mellow typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Cream Black Pro is characterized by its creamy and buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and silky sensation with each keystroke. Additionally, it provides a bouncy and spring-like feedback, giving users a lively feel while typing. The switch also boasts a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and enhanced smoothness during key travel. While information on the feel of the KTT Kang White switch is unavailable, based on the description of its self-lubricating material, it can be inferred that it likely provides a similarly smooth and seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its high-pitched and sharp sound profile, coupled with a creamy and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Kang White provides a low-pitched and smooth typing sound, likely complemented by a self-lubricating material for a seamless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer their own distinct characteristics for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier touch, the V3 Cream Black Pro with its 65-gram bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Kang White with its 58-gram bottom out force may be more suitable. Additionally, if you appreciate a high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy, snappy, or polished feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal option for you. However, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and a neutral feel, the Kang White could be the switch that meets your needs. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
