Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the KTT Mint represent two distinct philosophies in tactile feedback and typing experience. The Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by its pronounced tactile bump and a loud sound signature that delivers a bassy thock, appealing to those who enjoy a more engaging and pronounced keystroke. Its invigorating feedback is often favored by typists and gamers alike who seek a bouncy and polished experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch offers a satisfyingly smooth linear experience, marked by its long pole stem that produces a subtle yet satisfying pop sound. This switch caters to those who prefer a light and neutral typing feel, allowing for quicker and quieter keystrokes—making it a fantastic option for those who engage in prolonged typing sessions or prefer a stealthy gaming setup. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style and preferences.
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
2.00 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
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the KTT Mint are both constructed with polycarbonate top housings, which provides them with a distinct sharpness and clarity in sound profile. This choice of material allows for a crisper auditory experience while typing, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that resonates more efficiently than softer alternatives. Both switches benefit aesthetically from their translucent top housings, enhancing RGB lighting effects and creating a visually striking presentation. The similarities in their top housings suggest that users can expect comparable sound characteristics from both switches, particularly the higher-pitched tones generated upon key release.
In contrast to the top housing, both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the KTT Mint make use of nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is revered in the mechanical keyboard community for its ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics, imparting a fuller, deeper, and rounder sound profile when typing. This difference in material between the top and bottom housings leads to a melding of auditory qualities; while both switches boast a clear and resonant sound when the key is released due to the polycarbonate tops, the sound produced during the bottoming out is enriched by the sound-dampening properties of nylon. This design consideration ensures that both switches can deliver an engaging typing experience with depth and clarity.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom in both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and KTT Mint creates a unique balance in sound design. Users can enjoy the defined sharpness during key release contributed by the polycarbonate top, while simultaneously experiencing the softer, warmer audio signature during key presses courtesy of the nylon bottom. Because both switches share the same housing materials, users can anticipate a similarly cohesive typing soundscape. This harmonious blend provides an appealing alternative for users seeking a balanced auditory experience, whether they choose the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro or the KTT Mint.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch to the KTT Mint linear switch, distinct differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Mint switch exhibits a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Thus, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter option, while the KTT Mint is the heavier choice, catering to different user preferences in terms of typing feel. Overall, users looking for a more effortless typing experience may gravitate towards the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, whereas those seeking a stronger tactile response may prefer the KTT Mint.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there is a clear difference: the V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the KTT Mint boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a shallower feel, making it more responsive and suitable for gamers who prefer quicker keypresses. In contrast, the KTT Mint, with its 4 mm travel distance, offers a more substantial depth, which some users may find advantageous for a more tactile and deliberate typing experience. Thus, if you're looking for speed and immediate feedback, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the better choice, while the KTT Mint caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced key travel.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is known for its loud, bassier tone that delivers a distinctly robust audio experience when typing. This sound profile makes it more noticeable in quieter environments or during gaming sessions, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the KTT Mint linear switch showcases a low-pitched sound that maintains a neutral tone, making it suitable for varied settings, whether at home or in an office. Its more subdued audio characteristics offer a subtle, yet satisfying poppiness without the pronounced loudness of the Creamy Purple Pro, allowing for a more discrete typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by a range of sensations including a pronounced tactile bump, lively bounce, and an invigorating feedback that engages typists and can lead to an immersive typing experience. This tactility is complemented by a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the KTT Mint provides a mild and polished feel, which results in a gentle, smooth typing experience that is approachable for most users. With its long pole stem, the Mint leans towards a smooth linear typing sensation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more understated feedback without the pronounced tactility.
In summary, while both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and KTT Mint switches offer polished feels, their overall characteristics diverge significantly. The Creamy Purple Pro excels with its loud, bass-heavy sound and invigorating tactile feedback, appealing to those who appreciate an engaged typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Mint offers a softer, low-pitched sound and a mild tactile sensation that caters to users seeking smoothness and subtlety in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as each provides a unique mechanical experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate tactile feedback and enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, the Creamy Purple Pro’s invigorating tactile bump and lively, bouncy feel make it an excellent option, especially if you don't mind a louder sound profile. It's particularly suitable for those who type extensively, such as writers or programmers, where the tactile response can enhance precision and engagement. On the other hand, if you favor a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Mint is a fantastic choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force and linear actuation provide a subtle yet satisfying feedback ideal for gaming or rapid typing sessions. Additionally, its low-pitched sound profile ensures it remains discreet, making it a better fit for shared workspaces or quieter environments. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard to determine which switch aligns better with your needs.
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