Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Laurel mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider your preferences and needs. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is ideal for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth feel. It provides an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel offers a medium-light linear switch with a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design for a responsive and comfortable typing experience. It has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, so it's important to delve deeper into their functionalities to determine the best switch for your specific 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Laurel, we see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the Laurel opts for a POM top housing. Both materials offer unique sound profiles, with polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound while POM creates a deeper and more muted sound. The choice between the two will largely depend on personal preference for sound characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Laurel also uses POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and muted sound profile. While the materials may be different, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Laurel have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they both offer unique and pleasing sound profiles. The polycarbonate and nylon housings of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro create a sharper and rounder sound, respectively, while the POM housings of the Laurel produce a deeper and more muted sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference for the specific sound characteristics each housing material brings to the table.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, it is evident that the Laurel is the lighter option. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it in the lighter category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Laurel would be the better choice as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Laurel has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro falls into the category of a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers for its quicker response times. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Laurel may provide a more substantial feeling when typing for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for responsiveness or key depth.
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 Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 switches offer a poppy and clacky sound profile that adds a lively element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switches provide a subtly low-pitched sound that gives a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a more vibrant or a more subdued sound profile.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are characterized by their easy-to-press nature, feathery touch, bouncy feedback, snappy response, and polished finish. These qualities contribute to a comfortable and responsive typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Similarly, the KTT Laurel switches are known for their snappy response, providing a super responsive feel that makes typing feel more dynamic. Both switches offer a smooth and comfortable typing feel, so you can expect a similar level of typing comfort and responsiveness regardless of your choice.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches and the KTT Laurel linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches offer a poppy sound profile and a variety of tactile sensations, the Laurel switches provide a low-pitched sound and snappy response. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices depending on your personal preferences and typing style, so you can't go wrong with either option. Whether you prefer a more lively auditory experience or a more subdued one, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a satisfying combination of sound and smoothness, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you enjoy a poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prioritize responsiveness with a lower-pitched sound profile, the KTT Laurel could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to test them out and see which one enhances your typing experience the most. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what feels best for you.
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