Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Jerrzi Honey Bean
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jerrzi Honey Bean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jerrzi Honey Bean both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound signature with a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Honey Bean switches provide a light and linear action with silent operation, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments like offices. While the Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished feel, the Honey Bean is easy-to-press and feathery. Each switch has its own strengths depending on the desired sound, feel, and noise level. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jerrzi Honey Bean, we see that the V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Honey Bean utilizes a POM material for both. The polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the POM housing of the Honey Bean produces a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound characteristics can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users of each keyboard.
While the V3 Crystal Pro and the Honey Bean both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they also share similarities in their construction. Both keyboards feature transparent housings that allow for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. Additionally, the stiffness of the polycarbonate material in the V3 Crystal Pro's housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, similar to the qualities of POM material in the Honey Bean's housing. These shared qualities highlight the importance of housing material in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the sound profile of a keyboard. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings underscores the significance of housing material selection in achieving a desired typing experience. Whether opting for the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro or the deeper tone of POM in the Honey Bean, users can expect a unique and customized typing experience based on their preferred housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro is the heavier of the two. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium typing experience. In contrast, the Honey Bean is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches can impact the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Honey Bean for extended typing sessions, while those who desire a more substantial feel may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, catering to different preferences in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The slight difference of 0.1mm between the two may not be noticeable to some users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper keystroke may find the V3 Crystal Pro to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and how it affects the typing or gaming experience.
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy and unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch provides a muted sound profile, perfect for quiet environments such as offices. Both switches excel in providing a pleasant typing experience, but the choice between them will ultimately come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is bouncy and polished, offering a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience. Conversely, the Jerrzi Honey Bean switch is easy-to-press and feathery, providing gentle resistance and a comfortable typing feel that reduces finger fatigue. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of the amount of force required for key presses, so it is important to consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between the two.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch both offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback that cater to different preferences. While the V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the Honey Bean switch offers a muted sound and easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, deciding between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It is recommended to try both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences better.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a light, linear action with silent operation, making it ideal for office or shared environments, then the Honey Bean switch is worth considering. In closing, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the V3 Crystal Pro and Honey Bean switches will depend on what you value most in a keyboard switch.
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