Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the linear Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the tactile KTT Phalaenopsis mechanical keyboard switches, there are several factors to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is praised for its smoothness and unique poppy sound, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking a high-quality typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis stands out for its light actuation force and satisfying tactile bump, which can minimize finger fatigue during long typing sessions. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis both have polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is especially beneficial for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for light to shine through effectively. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. The difference in bottom housing materials will impact the typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced by the bottom housing material.
While the V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, they differ in their bottom housing materials, with the V3 Cream Black Pro using nylon and the Phalaenopsis using polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro creates a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the stiffer polycarbonate material produces a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing.
In terms of sound production, the bottom and top housing materials of a switch play a key role in shaping the overall sound profile. With the V3 Cream Black Pro having different materials for its top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are split between the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. The nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience, contrasting with the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Conversely, the Phalaenopsis's consistent use of polycarbonate results in a uniform sound profile throughout the key press. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound production can help users make informed choices based on their preferences for sound aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Black Pro switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. The V3 Cream Black Pro switch is better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Phalaenopsis switch is perfect for users who enjoy a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch which 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 who value speed. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for responsiveness or depth.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, providing a deeper and more rich auditory experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing feel, ensuring a smooth and buttery sensation with a spring-like feedback. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, offering a tactile sensation with two distinct stages during keystrokes. Both switches provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences. If you prefer a high-pitched sound with a creamy and bouncy feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro is the way to go. But if you enjoy a bassy and thocky sound with a stepped tactile feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles, but both switches promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound profile with a smooth and buttery typing experience, then the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a bassy and thocky sound profile with a stepped tactile feel, then the Phalaenopsis switch might be the better choice. Consider your typing habits, desired sound and feel, and choose the switch that best suits your preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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