Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Strawberry mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique advantages to the user. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its budget-friendly option while still maintaining high-quality performance. With a distinctive poppy and clacky sound, these switches are praised for their smoothness and reliable performance. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switches are loved for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and attractive pink and clear housings. While the Cream Black Pro is categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', the Strawberry is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Buttery', 'Polished'. 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
62g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Strawberry, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to use RGB lighting. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and crisper sound profile throughout.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a distinct typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, showcasing the impact of softer plastic on sound absorption. In contrast, the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with its top housing, maintaining a consistent sharper and crisper sound profile. This highlights how the choice of materials for both the top and bottom housing can influence the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Strawberry will ultimately come down to the user's preference for sound and feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a unique typing experience with its nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, users can expect a distinct typing experience from each switch based on the materials used in their housing construction.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro will provide a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the KTT Strawberry will offer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Both switches provide medium actuation forces, ensuring a good balance between speed and precision in typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with weight being a crucial factor to consider based on individual typing and gaming habits.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Strawberry linear switches, we find that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, whereas the KTT Strawberry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a quicker key response due to its shorter distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value fast reaction times. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 offers a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed, making it stand out for those who prefer a more distinctive and tactile auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch gives off a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone that appeals to individuals looking for a smoother and more subtle sound profile. It's important to note that these sound qualities can be influenced by other variables like the keyboard and keycaps being used, so it's crucial to consider the overall setup when choosing between the two switches.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing users with a smooth, spring-like typing experience that is both responsive and refined. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is characterized as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance. Both switches prioritize a polished finish and smooth key travel, making them a great choice for those who value a sleek and fluid typing experience.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and KTT Strawberry linear switches may differ slightly in sound and feel characteristics, they both prioritize smoothness, responsiveness, and overall high quality. Whether you prefer a more high-pitched and tactile sound profile or a low-pitched and mellow tone, both switches offer a premium typing experience that is sure to impress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the KTT Strawberry linear switch, you should take into account a few key factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched sound with a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, then the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a low-pitched sound with a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, then the KTT Strawberry might better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
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