Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Grapefruit mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches with distinct characteristics, it's important to consider their unique qualities. The V3 Crystal Pro is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature and a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches stand out for their tarty linear feel and a soft, light typing experience accompanied by a deep "baritone" sound profile. While the Crystal Pro is described as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Grapefruit is labeled as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Grapefruit both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housings, with the V3 Crystal Pro utilizing polycarbonate and the Grapefruit using nylon. The split in housing materials between top and bottom affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The V3 Crystal Pro's bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Conversely, the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top housings of both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Grapefruit create a sharp and clear sound, suitable for those looking for a higher pitched sound profile. However, the difference in bottom housing material results in a deeper sound for the Grapefruit due to its nylon construction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel during typing.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have medium actuation forces, providing a balance between responsiveness and ease of typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the KTT Grapefruit only requires 53 grams, making the Grapefruit switch slightly lighter in that aspect. This difference means that the Grapefruit switch may feel slightly easier to press all the way down compared to the Crystal Pro switch. Ultimately, those who prefer a slightly lighter typing experience may lean towards the KTT Grapefruit, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may prefer the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. Both switches offer a satisfactory typing experience, with the weight of the keystrokes being the main distinguishing factor between the two.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Grapefruit switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crystal Pro. In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro might provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, which could be preferred by gamers looking for a fast response time. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch might feel more substantial to those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer unique travel distances that cater to different preferences, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy and bright sound signature, characterized by a unique squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch provides a low-pitched and mellow tone, with a hint of baritone depth. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a more lively and chirpy sound or a deeper and more neutral tone. Keep in mind that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch is known for its bouncy and polished typing experience, offering a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. Similarly, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is also described as having a polished finish, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a refined typing experience, making them suitable for users who appreciate a slick and responsive feel when typing.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and KTT Grapefruit linear switches differ in their sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience. If you enjoy a chirpy and bright sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched, mellow tone with a polished and smooth feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, trying out both switches on your own keyboard setup will give you the most accurate assessment of which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switches and the KTT Grapefruit linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your preference in bottom out force, sound signature, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a bright, chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prefer switches with a soft, light feel and a "baritone" sound profile, then the KTT Grapefruit switches would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience when making your decision between these two unique switches.
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