Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Crystal Pro switches are celebrated for their fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple Pro switches offer a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, contributing to a delightful typing experience for enthusiasts. While the Crystal Pro switch is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Lavender Purple Pro switch is labeled as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers unique characteristics 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro differs in its bottom housing material, using nylon instead of polycarbonate. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the V3 Crystal Pro and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The V3 Crystal Pro maintains a consistent polycarbonate construction for both the top and bottom housing, ensuring a sharp and resonant sound profile throughout the switch. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of different materials in the housing of each switch allows for a variation in sound and feel when typing.
The choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing that delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Depending on whether you prefer a brighter sound with the V3 Crystal Pro or a richer sound with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preference.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the V3 Lavender Purple Pro slightly lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much finger fatigue. Overall, both switches offer a medium to medium-light touch, providing users with a satisfying typing experience depending on their preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Crystal Pro or the Lavender Purple Pro, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent experience in this regard, ensuring that your typing experience remains consistent regardless of which switch you choose.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, offering a smooth and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is described as having a higher-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying tactile bump, and offering an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel for a more responsive typing experience. While each switch has its own unique qualities in terms of both sound and feel, they both offer a polished typing experience with different characteristics tailored to the preferences of keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you choose the Crystal Pro or Lavender Purple Pro switches, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience that will vary based on individual preferences and setups.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Crystal Pro with 60 grams may be a better fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the Lavender Purple Pro with 55 grams may be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Crystal Pro is a great choice. However, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, the Lavender Purple Pro would be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for both sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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