Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Strawberry mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that stands out for its budget-friendly price point and satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry, also a linear switch, features a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, all housed in an attractive pink and clear housing. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers an easy-to-press and bouncy feel, the Strawberry provides a low-pitched and buttery smooth experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Strawberry feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro diverges with a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound.
In terms of the sound produced, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with a blend of a sharp, crisp sound on key release from the top housing and a deep, full sound on key press from the bottom housing. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry's consistent use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings results in a more uniform sound profile throughout typing. While both switches benefit from the clear and resonant sound characteristics of polycarbonate, the difference in bottom housing materials leads to distinct sound variations between the two.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the KTT Strawberry comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a unique typing experience with the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings, providing a mix of sharp and deep tones. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound throughout typing due to its polycarbonate top and bottom housings. Whether you prefer a varied sound experience or a more uniform sound profile, both switches utilize polycarbonate effectively to enhance the overall typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, one can see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is slightly heavier overall. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the KTT Strawberry has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, but the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires slightly more force to actuate, while the KTT Strawberry requires slightly more force to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Strawberry may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Strawberry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the KTT Strawberry may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and desired key press experience.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 V3 Cream Yellow Pro is praised for its poppy and clacky sound, giving users a vibrant auditory experience during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are known for their low-pitched tone, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them ultimately depends on your personal preference for keyboard sound.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are characterized by their easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. These switches also have a feathery and bouncy feel, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry switches are designed to be frictionless, silky, and buttery, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro focusing more on light actuation force and the Strawberry emphasizing smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and KTT Strawberry linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a more poppy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the Strawberry switches deliver a low-pitched sound and a smoother, buttery typing experience. Both switches excel in their own unique ways, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to whether you prioritize a vibrant auditory experience or a smooth typing feel in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a satisfying sound and smooth tactile feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth actuation, comfortable typing, and reliable performance, the KTT Strawberry linear switch might be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so ultimately, your decision should be based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you prefer the creaminess of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the smoothness of the KTT Strawberry, you're sure to enjoy a premium typing experience with either of these switches.
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