Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Semi Mute mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, one must weigh their specific preferences and priorities. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. With their distinctive poppy and clacky sound, coupled with smooth actuation, these switches offer a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches are tailored for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment and a softer typing sensation. The advanced dampening technology and linear actuation of the Semi Mute switches provide a quiet and comfortable typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Semi Mute, it is clear that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the keyboards. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Semi Mute has a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout.
While both keyboards share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Semi Mute diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a more muffled and round sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with a softer touch. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile associated with polycarbonate, bringing a consistent and resonant typing experience. This difference in bottom housing material underscores how the overall sound and feel of a keyboard can be influenced by the choice of materials used in its construction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Semi Mute comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both keyboards offer a sharp and clear sound profile due to their polycarbonate top housings, the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistent sound profile. By understanding how different housing materials impact typing feel and sound, users can make an informed decision based on their individual preferences for keyboard acoustics.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range. The V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which may appeal to users who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces. If both switches were to have the same actuation and bottom out forces, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and performance.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch provides a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying. Both switches fall within the range of travel distances commonly used in mechanical keyboards, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 is characterized by a high-pitched and sharp sound, which can be particularly satisfying for those who prefer a crisper auditory feedback when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a muted and quieter sound profile, ideal for users who prioritize a noise-free environment during their typing sessions. The contrast in sound qualities between the two switches is evident, with the Cream Black Pro providing a more distinctive and poppy sound while the Semi Mute delivers a softer and more subtle typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing sensation, allowing users to enjoy a smooth and elastic feedback with each keystroke. The polished finish of the Cream Black Pro switch contributes to a refined and sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a gentle and uniform typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a comfortable and gratifying feel during typing, with the Cream Black Pro emphasizing smoothness and bounciness, while the Semi Mute focuses on providing a seamless and effortless keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Black Pro stands out for its high-pitched and creamy sound profile, coupled with a bouncy and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Semi Mute excels in providing a muted and buttery sound, along with a mild and approachable typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with users likely to experience similar levels of satisfaction depending on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique poppy and clacky sound with smoothness, then the V3 Cream Black Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a completely silent operation, and advanced dampening technology for a noise-free typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force to ensure the best typing experience tailored to your needs.
Mentioned in this article
