Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT F2 mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in your typing experience. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a tactile sensation with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a lively feedback paired with smoothness. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switches provide a linear typing experience with a hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel. While the Cream Blue Pro is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', the F2 is categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Subtle', highlighting their unique qualities. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT F2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches if RGB lighting is a priority. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the F2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, reinforcing the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material.
In terms of sound and feel, the difference in housing materials between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT F2 becomes apparent when typing on them. The qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the key. On the other hand, the top housing material, both being polycarbonate in this case, will influence the sound when you release the key. This distinction can affect the overall typing experience, as the switch will have a unique combination of qualities from its top and bottom housing materials.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differentiation in their bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the F2's sharper and crisper sound from its polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics and typing feel. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique combination of qualities.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes and bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, both switches would be suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. However, for users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may lean towards switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the KTT F2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro. For some users, the shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm on the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may provide a quicker and more responsive typing experience, which is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the KTT F2 with a travel distance of 3.5 mm may offer a deeper and more tactile typing feel, which some users may prefer for a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
The KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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 Blue Pro switch offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is both lively and audible. This characteristic, combined with a smooth tactile sensation, creates an overall satisfying auditory feedback for users. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch is known for its unique hollow sound signature, setting it apart from other switches. The F2 offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of settings. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is often described as having an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. These qualities provide a medium-tactile experience that is not overwhelming, while also offering a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch is described as feathery, mild, and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience with light actuation force and a quiet sound signature. Both switches offer unique tactile nuances that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch excels in providing a distinct poppy sound profile and a lively tactile sensation, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate audible feedback. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch stands out with its hollow sound signature and feathery feel, offering a comfortable typing experience with subtle tactile characteristics. Whether you prefer a more lively and tactile experience or a quieter and lighter touch, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a poppy and clacky sound profile accompanied by smooth keystrokes, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a distinct hollow sound signature and a lightly textured feel, the F2 may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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