Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Purple Star both offer unique experiences for users. The V3 Cream Black Pro is recognized for its budget-friendly yet high-quality features, boasting a poppy and clacky sound paired with exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches are known for their all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience and a light 45g bottom-out ideal for light typists. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished' and the Purple Star as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Easy-to-press'. As you consider which switch may be the best fit for you, it's important to dive deeper into their specifics beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Purple Star, one major difference lies in their top housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Purple Star features a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can make a noticeable difference in the typing experience between the two switches.
Another point of comparison is the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The V3 Cream Black Pro incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Purple Star also uses a POM bottom housing, contributing to its unique sound that is deeper and more muted. While both switches aim for a pleasing sound experience, the distinction in bottom housing materials reflects their individual sound characteristics.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Purple Star, it's interesting to note that both switches prioritize creating a pleasing sound profile for users. While the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a sharper and deeper sound respectively, the Purple Star's POM top and bottom housings contribute to a deeper and more muted sound overall. Ultimately, selecting between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profiles and typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro is heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. With an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience compared to the Purple Star, which has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The V3 Cream Black Pro falls into the medium-heavy category, while the Purple Star is considered light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Purple Star would be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel may find the V3 Cream Black Pro more suitable for their needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Purple Star has the longer travel distance compared to the Cream Black Pro. The difference may seem minor, but it can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. Those who favor a faster response time may opt for the Cream Black Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Purple Star. Ultimately, both switches provide a different tactile feel, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference for key travel distance.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is high-pitched, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch is low-pitched, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This means that the Cream Black Pro will have a more vibrant and poppy sound, whereas the Purple Star will offer a more subtle and smooth typing sound. The ultimate sound experience of a switch also depends on other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth, buttery typing experience with spring-like feedback and super responsiveness. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. This means that the Cream Black Pro will give a more dynamic and lively typing feel, while the Purple Star will offer a comfortable and low-impact typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch boasts a high-pitched, poppy sound along with a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a vibrant and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch features a low-pitched, mellow sound and a mild, easy-to-press feel, offering a smooth and comfortable typing experience ideal for light typists. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a budget-minded individual looking for a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique poppy and clacky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a light typist seeking a buttery smooth typing experience with a light bottom out force, the KTT Purple Star linear switch would be the ideal option. Consider your typing preferences, budget, and desired typing experience when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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