Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and KTT Grapefruit present two distinct but appealing options for typists and gamers alike. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its pronounced tactile bump, delivering a satisfying feedback with each keystroke, complemented by a louder, bass-oriented sound signature that enriches the typing experience. Its polished, bouncy feel contributes to a lively interaction, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more engaged and tactile response while typing or gaming. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit switches offer a softer, lighter feel that caters to those who prefer a linear switch. Their low-pitched sound profile adds a comforting auditory backdrop without overwhelming noise, appealing to users who seek a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience. While the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference—be it the tactile engagement of the Creamy Purple Pro or the fluidity of the Grapefruit—there's a lot to consider. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the KTT Grapefruit share a commonality in their choice of housing materials, specifically in the top and bottom housing configurations. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which plays a crucial role in delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This similarity means that users can expect a clear and resonant auditory experience from both switches. The polycarbonate's inherent translucency enhances RGB lighting effects, making both options appealing for enthusiasts who prioritize visual aesthetics in their keyboard setups. As such, users can anticipate similar results in sound profile and aesthetic appeal when opting for either switch.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is constructed from nylon, which significantly influences the overall typing experience. The nylon material is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This shared characteristic means that both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Grapefruit will provide a rounded, mellower auditory feedback, which can enhance the comfort and satisfaction during long typing sessions. Given that the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound is pronounced, users will enjoy the same cushioned feedback from either switch, adding to a sense of continuity in their typing experience.
If one examines the interplay between the top and bottom housings, it's clear that each contributes distinct sound qualities, creating a harmonized typing experience. While the polycarbonate top housing sharpens the sound upon releasing a key, the nylon bottom softerens it during the key press, blending the acoustic qualities of both materials. Thus, even though the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and KTT Grapefruit have differing sound characteristics based on their design, the synergy between their housings ensures that users will enjoy a cohesive typing experience. Ultimately, whether choosing the V3 or the Grapefruit, users can expect a reliable blend of crispness from the top and fullness from the bottom, translating to an enjoyable overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces reveal their distinct characteristics. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which provides a more substantial feel while typing. This means that the Grapefruit switch is the heavier option, offering a medium-light typing experience, while the Creamy Purple Pro is lighter and more forgiving. For users who prefer a lighter switch for long-term use, the Akko V3 would be ideal, whereas those seeking a stronger push feeling might lean toward the KTT Grapefruit. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Akko V3 wins, while the KTT Grapefruit offers a heavier tactile experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a key distinction between the two: the V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a shallower press, which can be more appealing for gamers seeking quicker response times and increased speed during gameplay. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit, with its 4 mm travel distance, delivers a deeper, more substantial feel that some users may find preferable for a satisfying typing experience. Consequently, if you prioritize responsiveness and a swift actuation, the Akko V3 is the better choice, whereas the KTT Grapefruit would suit those who enjoy a more pronounced key press and feedback while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
The KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch produces a loud sound signature with a deeper, bassier tone, making it quite prominent during use. This auditory presence is likely to be noticeable in a variety of settings, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound profile, which is softer and mellower in comparison. The Grapefruit's sound may not stand out as much in a busy environment, providing a more subdued typing experience that could be suitable for quieter settings.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro excels with its invigorating tactile bump that offers robust feedback, combined with a polished texture that enhances smooth key travel. It feels bouncy and lively, allowing for an engaging typing experience as each key press is met with a noticeable response. The switch strikes a balance between being tactically pronounced without being overwhelming. On the other hand, although the KTT Grapefruit boasts a polished feel that ensures smooth key presses, it is primarily linear and lacks the pronounced tactile feature seen in the Creamy Purple Pro. As a result, the Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light sensation, making it ideal for users who prefer a seamless key press without tactile interruptions.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and KTT Grapefruit linear switch diverge significantly in sound and feel, both offer polished finishes that contribute to a smooth typing experience. The Creamy Purple Pro engages users with its tactile feedback and prominent sound, while the Grapefruit serves those who prefer a more muted auditory experience combined with a linear feel. Each switch can cater to different preferences, allowing users to find a switch that meets their individual typing or gaming style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more tactile experience with a pronounced bump and enjoy the auditory feedback of a louder, bass-heavy sound profile, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the right choice for you. This switch features a light bottom-out force of 50 grams and boasts a polished, bouncy feel, which can make typing feel more dynamic and immersive—especially great for those who enjoy a lively keystroke and want to feel a clear distinction when engaging the switch. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother, quieter typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the KTT Grapefruit could be more suited to your tastes. Known for its low-pitched, soft linear feel, this switch offers a polished finish as well but may appeal more to gamers or typists looking for a streamlined keypress without tactile bumps or loud sounds. Ultimately, your choice comes down to whether you value tactile feedback and sound or prefer a softer, more linear experience while you type or game.
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