KTT Cream Yellow vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature, and a silky smooth typing experience. While the Cream Yellow switch offers a more resonant audio feedback, the Crystal Pro switch provides a polished and smooth typing experience. 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
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetic-wise, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Cream Yellow has a nylon bottom housing which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound overall.
While both the Cream Yellow and the V3 Crystal Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, taking advantage of the softness of nylon to create a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile, complementing the resonance of the polycarbonate top housing. This difference in bottom housing materials may result in varying typing experiences and sound outcomes between the two keyboards.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The Cream Yellow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings offers a unique blend of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Crystal Pro's consistent use of polycarbonate provides a more uniform and resonant typing experience. Whether one prefers a crisper sound with the Crystal Pro or a fuller sound with the Cream Yellow, both keyboards showcase the impact that housing materials can have on overall keyboard performance.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category, with the Cream Yellow being slightly heavier in terms of actuation force but lighter in bottom out force compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. This means that the Cream Yellow may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the higher actuation force, while the V3 Crystal Pro may offer a bit more resistance when bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. The Cream Yellow switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for those looking for quick and precise key presses. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 KTT Cream Yellow and Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches offer distinct characteristics. The Cream Yellow switch produces a sharp and snappy "clacky" sound, while the V3 Crystal Pro switch delivers a bright and chirpy tone. Both switches offer unique audio feedback that can enhance the typing experience, though the specific sound you prefer will depend on personal preference and other factors like keyboard and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, both the Cream Yellow and V3 Crystal Pro switches are described as providing a bouncy typing experience. This spring-like feedback creates a lively feel with rebound when the keys are pressed, offering a tactile sensation that some users find enjoyable. Additionally, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is noted for its "polished" feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish that can result in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Cream Yellow and V3 Crystal Pro switches offer unique characteristics in both sound and feel. While both switches provide a bouncy typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its clacky sound, while the V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a chirpy tone and polished feel. Choosing between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Ultimately, trying out both switches can help you determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be more suited to your preference. Both switches offer a medium bottom out force and a bouncy typing experience, but their sound profiles and materials differ, giving each switch a unique feel and sound. Consider your personal preferences in sound and feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure you find the perfect fit for your typing experience.
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