Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Hutt mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that may influence your decision. The V3 Crystal Pro switch is a linear switch best known for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound profile along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt switch is a tactile switch featuring a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump, offering a balanced sound profile and an enjoyable typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Hutt switch is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Accented', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may cater to different preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Hutt, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboards. However, where the V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Bsun Hutt utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer material that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
While both keyboards share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The V3 Crystal Pro with its polycarbonate bottom housing will offer a clear and resonant sound profile, providing a balanced typing experience. In comparison, the Bsun Hutt's nylon bottom housing will give a deeper and fuller sound, enhancing the typing experience with a softer and more absorbent material. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each keyboard, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Hutt plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each keyboard. While both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound and RGB lighting compatibility, the distinction lies in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a clear and resonant sound, while the Bsun Hutt's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the decision between these keyboards may come down to individual preferences in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in their performance. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams, compared to the Hutt's lighter 40 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the V3 Crystal Pro is also heavier at 60 grams, whereas the Hutt requires only 49 grams. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro provides a more substantial typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Hutt offers a lighter touch, suitable for those who want to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly longer than the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular due to their quick response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hutt switch for its faster feedback. However, some users may find the longer travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro to provide a more satisfying typing experience with a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for feel and responsiveness.
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 Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 unique chirpy sound, adding a bit of character to your typing experience, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch provides a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp, immersing you in the auditory feedback of each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Crystal Pro being bright and chirpy, and the Hutt delivering a more resonant and immersive auditory experience. Depending on your personal preference, you can expect similar results in sound quality with either switch, as ultimately, the sound profile can also be influenced by factors like keyboard build and keycap choice.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provides a bouncy and polished sensation, offering a spring-like feedback with smooth key travel for a lively and sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch offers a snappy and invigorating feel, with a sharp and prominent tactile bump that provides a responsive and immersive typing sensation. The Hutt switch also features an accented feel, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle, adding to the overall typing experience. While both switches offer unique tactile feedback, the Crystal Pro's bouncy and polished sensation contrasts with the Hutt's snappy and sharp tactile bump, allowing users to choose based on their preferred typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel that can enhance your typing experience. The Crystal Pro stands out with its bright and chirpy sound signature, paired with a bouncy and polished typing feel, promoting a smooth and lively experience. Conversely, the Hutt switch delivers a resonant sound profile and a snappy, sharp tactile feel, creating an immersive and responsive typing sensation. Depending on your personal preferences in sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, ultimately allowing you to choose the switch that best suits your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and bright typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a distinctive tactile bump for an immersive typing experience, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound and feel while typing. Consider the unique characteristics of each switch and choose the one that best aligns with your typing style.