Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the KTT Laurel offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, delivering a satisfying feedback with each keystroke, complemented by a loud and bass-rich sound signature. This switch is perfect for users who enjoy a more engaging typing experience and appreciate the auditory feedback that comes with a tactile switch. In contrast, the KTT Laurel is a medium-light linear switch designed for a smooth, uninterrupted keypress. Its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design provide excellent responsiveness, making it ideal for gamers or typists who prefer swift and silent key action. With its subtly low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel caters to those who value a quieter typing environment. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you desire pronounced tactile feedback or a seamless linear 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
30g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the KTT Laurel showcase distinct yet complementary materials in their housing design, particularly evident in their top housings. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing known for its stiffer structure, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the RGB lighting visibility, making it an excellent choice for visually dynamic setups. In contrast, the KTT Laurel opts for a POM top housing, which contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials yield varying auditory experiences, they can achieve similar satisfying results in terms of acoustic performance, depending on user preferences for sound depth and clarity.
When we delve into the bottom housing composition, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro employs nylon, noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs vibrations. This results in a duller and rounder acoustic profile that can be pleasing for users who favor a richer sound while typing. Conversely, the KTT Laurel utilizes a POM bottom housing, which similarly produces a unique sound that leans towards the muted end of the spectrum. The fact that both switches have bottom housings designed for deeper sound profiles means that they will likely feel and sound enjoyable during typing, despite the distinct material characteristics between nylon and POM.
The interplay between the upper and lower housing materials in each switch ultimately creates a unique sound experience tailored to individual preferences. In the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, the interplay between the bright and resonant polycarbonate top housing and the full-bodied nylon bottom housing lets users experience a rich auditory profile that balances sharpness and depth. Meanwhile, the KTT Laurel’s combination of a muted POM top and bottom housing crafts a more cohesive sound that resonates with those seeking a smoother auditory experience. While the materials differ, the characteristics of each housing can lead to similar satisfaction in terms of sound and feel, affirming that both switches cater to nuanced user preferences in their overall auditory performance.
Weight
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch present an interesting contrast in terms of actuation force, while both share the same bottom out force. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a notably lighter actuation force of 30 grams, which can contribute to a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the KTT Laurel requires a heavier actuation force of 43 grams, providing a more substantial feedback that may be appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced push feel. Both switches exhibit the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that regardless of their differing actuation forces, users will experience a similar level of resistance when fully bottoming out. Thus, for users prioritizing a lighter touch, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the preferable choice, whereas those seeking a heftier feel would likely lean towards the KTT Laurel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, notable differences emerge. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, making it a shallower option optimal for gamers who favor quicker response times. In contrast, the KTT Laurel has a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, providing a more pronounced keystroke that some users might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Consequently, those who lean towards a more responsive feel should choose the shorter V3 Creamy Purple Pro, whereas individuals who enjoy a deeper travel distance may find the KTT Laurel more appealing.
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 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
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch produces a loud sound signature that leans towards a bassier tone, making it quite prominent during typing. This auditory aspect can be invigorating for those who enjoy a tactile and auditory feedback experience, providing a more engaging interaction with the keyboard. In comparison, the KTT Laurel linear switch features a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which is mellower and less intrusive than the Creamy Purple Pro. This can create a quieter typing experience that might appeal to users in shared environments or those who prefer a more understated acoustic footprint.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is known for its large, invigorating tactile bump, giving users a noticeable pushback that adds a satisfying element to the typing experience. This tactile feedback is often appreciated by those who enjoy a more pronounced sensation while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel boasts a snappy feel, characterized by quick responsiveness, likely thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. This design gives the switch an engaging and lively feel, allowing users to type with speed and efficiency without the tactile bump to slow them down.
Overall, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and KTT Laurel switches each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its loud sound and pronounced tactile feedback, ideal for users who love a rich auditory and tactile experience. In contrast, the KTT Laurel shines in its quieter operation and responsive feel, appealing to those who prioritize speed and comfort. Depending on your inclination towards sound and tactile feedback, both switches will deliver satisfying results, but in distinctly different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback with a distinctive bump that adds a physical element to your keystrokes, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent choice. Its light actuation force and bassy sound profile can elevate your typing experience with a satisfying auditory dimension, making it well-suited for those who appreciate a more engaging and tactile experience, especially in a loud or dynamic environment. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother, more linear typing experience that allows for rapid key presses and responsiveness without the tactile interruption, the KTT Laurel is the ideal option. With its medium-light force and low-pitched sound profile, it delivers comfort and ease, perfect for gaming or long typing sessions where fluidity is key. By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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