Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Semi Mute stand out as popular choices with unique characteristics. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch known for its poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a lively and audible feedback paired with a smooth, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is a linear switch that lives up to its name by providing completely silent operation, perfect for those who prefer a noise-free environment during late-night typing sessions. While the Cream Blue Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, the Semi Mute delivers a buttery and muted feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, making them ideal options based on individual needs. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Semi Mute both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share similar top housing materials in polycarbonate, they differ when it comes to the bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a different typing experience compared to the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the top housing material, which in both cases is polycarbonate, has a more significant effect on the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Semi Mute will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether the focus is on typing feel or sound characteristics upon key release, the differences in housing materials between these two switches provide unique typing experiences for enthusiasts to consider.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Semi Mute linear switch with an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 55 grams, while the KTT Semi Mute requires 58 grams, making the latter slightly heavier. Both of these switches provide a medium level of resistance, making them suitable for a wide range of typists. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, while those who enjoy a heavier push may prefer the KTT Semi Mute. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, the Cream Blue Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Semi Mute's 4 mm. The Cream Blue Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers. On the other hand, the Semi Mute provides a more substantial keypress depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference: if you value speed and responsiveness, opt for the Cream Blue Pro, but if you enjoy a more pronounced keypress, the Semi Mute may be the better option for you.
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 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 Blue Pro switches are known for their distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a lively and audible feedback that is accompanied by a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches are designed to be completely silent, providing a muted and quiet typing experience for users who value noise-free environments, especially during late-night sessions. Both switches offer contrasting sound qualities, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro being more vibrant and audible, while the Semi Mute delivers a quiet and unobtrusive typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium tactile feedback with a lively and responsive typing sensation. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute switches are characterized as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches focus on providing a tactile and responsive feel, the Semi Mute switches prioritize a smooth and effortless keystroke, catering to those who prefer a more subdued typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches and the KTT Semi Mute switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Cream Blue Pro switches deliver a lively and tactile typing experience with a poppy and clacky sound profile, while the Semi Mute switches provide a silent and smooth keystroke for users who prefer a noise-free environment. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a vibrant tactile experience or a quiet and smooth typing sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a lively, audible feedback combined with a creamy, tactile sensation at a budget-friendly price point, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and seek a comfortable, silent typing experience, especially for late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is your best bet. Ultimately, choosing between these switches boils down to your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and requirements.
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