Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT F2 mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that each offers a unique typing experience. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its budget-friendly appeal and satisfying poppy, clacky sound paired with a smooth feel. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. While the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Bouncy', the KTT F2 is labeled as 'Mild' and 'Subtle'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and intended use. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 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 Yellow Pro and the KTT F2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches using RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes nylon, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate.
While both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT F2 share polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound associated with polycarbonate. The contrasting bottom housing materials showcase how different materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch. With the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT F2 utilize polycarbonate top housings, which create a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. However, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing. The choice of housing materials in each keyboard switch impacts the overall sound and feel, with the bottom housing material playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the F2's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also has a higher force of 60 grams compared to the F2's 53 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, while the F2 provides a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler keypress. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feedback and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for lighter or heavier keypresses.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the F2 being slightly longer than the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while those who prefer a bit more depth to their keystrokes may opt for the KTT F2. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience, while the KTT F2 linear switch stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature, offering a more subdued sound profile suitable for quieter environments. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the environment in which the keyboard will be used, as both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can be further enhanced or dampened by the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and other factors.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, providing a low-impact and responsive typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, catering to those who prefer a light actuation force with a gentle resistance. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offering a bouncy and snappy feel, and the F2 providing a more subtle and polished typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and KTT F2 linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a poppy sound and easy-to-press feel, while the F2 offers a hollow sound signature and a feathery typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are suitable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch or the KTT F2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more tactile typing experience with a poppy sound, then the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more subdued sound with a lightly textured feel, then the F2 may be more suited to your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT F2 will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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