Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches offer unique features and benefits for different types of users. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is praised for its exceptional smoothness thanks to its proprietary Ly blend, offering a crisp and clacky sound signature for a satisfying keystroke experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro is described as bouncy, chirpy, and polished, the Lavender switch is categorized as easy-to-press and clacky. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Zuoce Lavender, we can see that both keyboards utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a crisper typing experience with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Lavender uses a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users looking for specific auditory feedback.
Moving on to the bottom housings, we see a similar pattern of utilizing different materials for each keyboard. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing in creating a clear and resonant sound profile when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Lavender uses a POM bottom housing, contributing to a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. These differences in bottom housing materials showcase how manufacturers can tailor the typing experience based on the materials used in different components of the keyboard.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Zuoce Lavender showcase how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the sound profile and overall typing experience of a keyboard. While the V3 Crystal Pro leans towards a sharper and crisp sound with its polycarbonate housing, the Lavender provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM housing. Both keyboards offer unique auditory feedback based on their housing materials, catering to the preferences of different users seeking specific sound profiles in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force become apparent. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Zuoce Lavender's 53 grams, making it the heavier option. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 48 grams. This means that while typing on both switches will feel very similar in terms of actuation, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Zuoce Lavender may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is 3.8mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Lavender switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for some users. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 distinctive chirpy sound, adding a unique quality to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch provides a crisp and clacky sound with each press, giving a satisfying and percussive experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the V3 Crystal Pro being brighter and more chirpy, while the Lavender has a sharp and snappy sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, with spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. This provides a lively sensation when typing and enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance and low-impact typing feel. This gentle actuation force reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making it comfortable and effortless to type on.
Taking into account the sound and feel qualities of both switches, it's clear that the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Zuoce Lavender linear switches offer distinct experiences for users. The V3 Crystal Pro excels in providing a bright and chirpy sound along with a bouncy and polished typing feel, while the Zuoce Lavender stands out for its crisp and clacky sound paired with an easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose either switch to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can provide similar results in terms of switch actuation and overall functionality.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky-smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp and clacky sound signature with exceptional smoothness right out of the box, the Lavender switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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