Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Darling both offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is ideal for those who appreciate a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth tactile feel, making it a great choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts. On the other hand, the KTT Darling provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, appealing to users who crave a blend of tactile and auditory feedback. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Darling, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for providing a visually appealing keyboard experience. With similar top housing materials, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits from both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Darling keyboards.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the KTT Darling also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile like the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. With both keyboards sharing the same bottom housing material, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the nylon material providing a softer touch for a more rounded sound.
In terms of overall construction, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Darling showcase a deliberate choice in housing materials to enhance the typing experience for users. While both keyboards share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and aesthetic appeal, they also offer a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience. By utilizing these specific housing materials, both keyboards aim to provide users with a premium typing experience that combines sound quality, tactile feedback, and visual aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. On the other hand, the KTT Darling is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force, but the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires a slightly heavier force to fully bottom out compared to the Darling. This means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the KTT Darling. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the KTT Darling linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, especially gamers. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive keypress. On the other hand, the Darling's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystroke for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow Pro for $2.00.
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy and clacky sound that creates a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch produces a high-pitched and resonant sound that adds an engaging blend of tactile and auditory feedback to each keystroke. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on the user's preference and setup.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is characterized by an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. These features contribute to a smooth and comfortable typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch is highlighted by its bouncy response, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. While both switches offer bouncy feedback, the Cream Yellow Pro provides a broader range of tactile experiences to suit different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and KTT Darling linear switches each offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow Pro excels in providing a poppy and clacky sound paired with various tactile experiences, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option. Meanwhile, the Darling stands out for its high-pitched and resonant sound, coupled with a bouncy typing sensation that adds an extra layer of responsiveness to each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium bottom out force and a combination of poppy sound and smooth feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, a chewy and substantial typing sensation, and a pronounced bounciness with high-pitched resonant sound, the KTT Darling linear switch is the ideal choice for you. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and budget when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a classic and satisfying typing experience, while the KTT Darling provides a unique and engaging tactile and auditory feedback. Choose wisely based on your individual preferences and typing style.
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