KTT Cream Yellow vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its distinctive clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a resonant audio feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 switches are favored for their budget-friendly option that provides a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth typing experience. While the Cream Yellow switch is characterized by its bouncy and clacky nature, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate plastic. This material is also beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, while both switches feature the same top housing material, the differences lie in their bottom housings.
The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Similarly, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering the same benefits of a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the different bottom housing materials, both switches combine the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon to create a unique typing experience.
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, it is evident that both switches aim to provide a premium sound profile for users. While the polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housing complements it by providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the more mellow sound of nylon, both switches offer a combination of qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the KTT Cream Yellow has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. The difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly different typing experience for users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. For those who prioritize lighter weight switches for longer typing or gaming sessions, the KTT Cream Yellow may be the preferred choice. Both switches offer a medium actuation and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience that should cater to a wide range of users.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. However, the Cream Yellow switch is slightly longer, which may appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth and keypress feedback. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and users can expect similar performance from both options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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.
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 Cream Yellow offers a distinctively clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a poppy and clacky sound right out of the box, offering a satisfying combination of sound punchiness and smoothness. The sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used, so results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy typing sensation, thanks to its spring-like or elastic feedback that gives a lively rebound when pressed. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro boasts an easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is described as feathery, providing a light actuation force for a comfortable typing experience. Both switches also offer a snappy and polished feel, contributing to a responsive and smooth typing experience.
Overall, the Cream Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in both sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro delivers a poppy sound with easy-to-press and feathery characteristics. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches cater to different needs and preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch, showcasing the versatility and quality of Cream Yellow linear switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a poppy, clacky sound and an easy-to-press, feathery feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you desire, whether it be a more resonant and bouncy feel with the Cream Yellow, or a smooth and responsive feel with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro.
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