Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Purple Star represent two distinct approaches to typing experience and auditory feedback. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a lively auditory response coupled with a satisfying tactile bump. This makes it an excellent choice for users who enjoy clear feedback while typing, particularly appealing to those on a budget without compromising quality. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star, a linear switch, provides a silky-smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile that’s perfect for a quieter environment. With a light 45g bottom-out weight, these switches cater to light typists, delivering comfort and ease of use. While the Cream Blue Pro leans into a more engaging and responsive typing feel, the Purple Star emphasizes smoothness and subtlety. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Purple Star showcase distinct choices in their top housing materials, which significantly impact their sound profiles. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, contributing to a sharper, more high-pitched sound signature. This material’s rigidity enhances the clarity and resonance of the keystrokes, especially under RGB lighting conditions, where the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for illuminating effects. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star opts for a POM top housing, known for producing a deeper, more muted sound profile. While both materials can be aesthetically pleasing, their differing properties result in a notable difference in auditory experience—polycarbonate offers a brighter sound, while POM lends a more subdued character.
Examining the bottom housing reveals a parallel in the use of softer plastic materials. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a nylon bottom housing, fostering a fuller and deeper sound profile that tends to absorb sound waves, consequently creating a rounder typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Purple Star employs a POM bottom housing, which is also known for its deep sound. This material’s sound profile is relatively muted, aligning it closely with the acoustic properties of the nylon bottom housing in the V3 Cream Blue Pro. Despite the differing materials, both switches achieve a rich sound quality, highlighting how the interplay of bottom housing materials can still lead to favorable outcomes in acoustic performance.
When combining the two profiles, we see how the key characteristics of each switch manifest uniquely through their materials. With the V3 Cream Blue Pro, the interaction between the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom creates a balanced auditory experience that is both sharp and full-bodied. In comparison, the KTT Purple Star’s POM housings at both the top and bottom offer a cohesive sound performance, being deeper and more muted throughout the typing experience. Ultimately, while the two switches utilize different materials for their top housings, both designs harness their unique properties to create pleasurable sound experiences, albeit in distinctly different registers. Users can enjoy rich and satisfying typing sensations from both switches, highlighting how varied materials can complement each other to create delightful auditory outcomes.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, we can see notable differences in both 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, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that typists who prefer a lighter switch will likely gravitate towards the KTT Purple Star, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. For users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the Cream Blue Pro, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, may provide the satisfying resistance they seek. In summary, while both switches offer unique benefits, the KTT Purple Star is the lighter option, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, whereas the V3 Cream Blue Pro may cater to those who favor a firmer feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch reveals a small yet notable difference. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Purple Star has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you prefer quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be more appealing, as it can lead to a snappier feel during gameplay or typing. Conversely, if you enjoy a more pronounced key press and a hearty depth, the KTT Purple Star's longer travel distance might better suit your preferences. Thus, for a balance of responsiveness, one might gravitate towards the V3 Cream Blue Pro, while those desiring a deeper experience may opt for the Purple Star.
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 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
The sound profile of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is characterized by its distinct poppy and clacky tones, which provide a lively auditory experience that many typists enjoy. This switch's sound is harmonious with its tactile feedback, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate audible feedback while typing. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star has a more neutral sound signature; its low-pitched tone delivers a mellow, bass-heavy acoustics that may not be as pronounced as the Cream Blue Pro but is nonetheless pleasing in its subtlety. The sound performance of both switches can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard design and keycap materials, but the Cream Blue Pro definitely stands out for its more vibrant auditory feedback.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a rich tactile experience marked by its accented and bouncy characteristics. This switch provides a snappy response, making each keystroke feel alive due to the combination of tactile feedback and smooth travel. The polished finish further enhances this experience by minimizing friction and improving the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star presents a more mild typing experience that is easy-to-press. This switch will appeal to users who prefer a gentle resistance, making it particularly comfortable for longer typing sessions. While the Cream Blue Pro engages typists with its more pronounced tactile sensations, the Purple Star caters to those desiring a softer, more subdued feel.
In summary, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and KTT Purple Star switches offer unique experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Cream Blue Pro delivers an engaging and tactile experience with lively acoustics, making it suitable for those who enjoy feedback in both sound and feel. Conversely, the KTT Purple Star caters to light typists seeking comfort and ease, featuring a low-resistance design with a smooth and mild sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one prefers a more pronounced tactile and auditory experience or a softer, gentler typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a more engaging typing experience characterized by audible feedback, a lively sound profile, and a tactile sensation that strikes a balance between pronounced and subtle, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is a superb choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams offers a responsive feel without being overly demanding, making it ideal for users who appreciate a bit of personality in their key presses, especially during gaming or typing tasks that require a nice tactile bump. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, low-impact typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue, the KTT Purple Star might be more up your alley. With its lighter 50-gram bottom-out force and buttery-smooth action, this switch is perfect for extended typing sessions or if you prefer a quieter, neutral sound signature. In summary, choose the V3 Cream Blue Pro for a tactile and engaging experience and the Purple Star for effortless and comfortable typing.
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