Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are some distinguishing features that may influence your decision. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are known for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, offering a soft and seductive typing feel. While the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Chirpy', the Meteor Orange is labeled as 'Neutral' and 'Mild'. Both switches are described as 'Polished', but each offers a unique typing experience based on their distinct characteristics. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange, both keyboards utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic. In contrast, the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, the Meteor Orange's nylon housing produces a duller and rounder sound.
Despite their differences, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Meteor Orange offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The transparency of the polycarbonate top housing on the V3 Crystal Pro allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange provides a classic aesthetic while delivering a deeper typing sound. Each keyboard's choice of housing material contributes to the overall typing experience, with the stiffer polycarbonate creating a crisp sound and the softer nylon producing a fuller sound.
Ultimately, the variation in housing materials between the V3 Crystal Pro and the Meteor Orange results in distinct typing experiences for users. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a combination of qualities to be felt when pressing down and releasing a key. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Whether opting for the sharp and resonant qualities of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro or the deep and absorbing properties of nylon in the Meteor Orange, users can expect a unique typing experience based on their preference for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, the actuation force of the Crystal Pro is 48 grams, while the Meteor Orange is unknown. The bottom out force of the Crystal Pro is 60 grams, slightly heavier than the 57 grams of the Meteor Orange, giving it a medium-light feel. The Crystal Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, whereas the Meteor Orange offers a lighter touch due to its lower bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Crystal Pro being heavier and the Meteor Orange being lighter, catering to different preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, we can see that the V3 Crystal Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. While the 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, it can make a difference in how the switches feel when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the SP-Star Meteor Orange. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 chirpy and unique acoustics signature, giving it a playful and distinctive sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile with a hint of thockiness, offering a more traditional and satisfying sound experience. Both switches deliver excellent sound quality, but they cater to different preferences - the Crystal Pro for those looking for a more standout auditory experience, and the Meteor Orange for users who prefer a more neutral and calming sound.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bouncy and polished typing experience, with a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel that enhances the overall typing feel. Conversely, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Both switches prioritize smoothness and refined key travel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience that minimizes fatigue and maximizes typing efficiency.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer unique and appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Pro stands out with its chirpy sound signature and bouncy typing experience, the Meteor Orange provides a neutral sound profile with a gentle and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, but rest assured that both switches deliver high-quality performance that will enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, then the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the unique construction and sound of the Crystal Pro switches or the gentle tactility and neutral sound profile of the Meteor Orange switches. Both switches have their own strengths, so consider your typing preferences and needs to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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