Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Kang White mechanical keyboard switches, there are both similarities and differences to consider. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a bouncy and polished feel. On the other hand, the Kang White switch is praised for its poppy linear design and dazzling typing sound, as well as unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material, making it a great option for those who prefer a low-pitched and neutral feel. 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
58g
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
No
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
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Kang White feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it especially ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting for a more aesthetically pleasing look. The similarities in their top housing material suggest that users can expect comparable sound profiles and overall performance when typing on either of these keyboards.
However, where the two keyboards differ is in their bottom housing material. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the qualities of a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials may result in a slightly different typing experience and sound profile between the two keyboards, especially in terms of bottom-out sound and feel.
In the realm of switch housings, the division between top and bottom materials plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and typing experience. While both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Kang White share the same polycarbonate top housing qualities, the differences in their bottom housing materials will influence how the switches feel and sound. The impact of the bottom housing will be more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, these variations in housing materials contribute to the unique characteristics and performance of each keyboard.
Weight
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Kang White linear switches have medium actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for a wide range of typing preferences. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the KTT Kang White is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Kang White may appeal to those looking for a smoother typing experience, while the slightly heavier forces of the V3 Crystal Pro may be preferred by users looking for more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on typing style and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Kang White linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly shallower feel compared to the Kang White. Gamers looking for faster response times may gravitate towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may find the KTT Kang White more to their liking. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of key 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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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
Sound-wise, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique chirpy sound, adding a little squeak to the typing experience, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch delivers a low-pitched and mellow tone, making it suitable for a variety of settings due to its neutral sound profile. The choice between these switches would depend on whether you prefer a more distinctive chirpy sound or a mellow, bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro provides a bouncy and lively typing experience, giving users a rebound effect when keys are pressed. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches offers a smooth and refined feel, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the KTT Kang White linear switch is not available, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a distinct sound profile and a bouncy, polished feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound profile and are unsure about the tactile feedback of the KTT Kang White switch, you may want to consider trying both switches to determine which one best suits your preferences. Both switches offer smooth typing experiences, so you can expect similar results in that aspect.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, along with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a poppy linear switch with a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to self-lubricating material, along with a slightly lower bottom out force of 58 grams, the Kang White may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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