Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Miaowu both offer unique qualities worth considering. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Miaowu leverages KTT's latest molds for enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, utilizing POK in its stem for a unique feel. While the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', 'Polished', the Miaowu falls under 'Bouncy', 'Clacky'. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Miaowu both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting. However, the Miaowu also incorporates polycarbonate in its top housing, providing similar sound characteristics and visual appeal as the V3 Crystal Pro.
While both the V3 Crystal Pro and Miaowu use polycarbonate for their top housings, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for the bottom housing as well, maintaining a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Miaowu features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch impacts the sound and feel of key presses. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether made of polycarbonate or nylon, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound produced when releasing the key. Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience for the user.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Miaowu is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The V3 Crystal Pro falls into the medium range in terms of force required, while the Miaowu is considered light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming, the Miaowu would be the preferable choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but the slight differences in weight may cater to different preferences in typing sensation.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Miaowu has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Crystal Pro. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying key press feel for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for their efficiency and speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press 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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is best described as having a chirpy sound, giving it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is characterized as being clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Crystal Pro providing a bright and cheerful sound, while the Miaowu offers a crisp and percussive tone.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is noted for its bouncy and polished feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with smooth and refined key travel. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Similarly, the KTT Miaowu switch also provides a bouncy feel, giving users a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that adds liveliness to each keystroke. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, with the Crystal Pro focusing on smoothness and refinement, while the Miaowu emphasizes stability and keystroke action.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with its polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch leverages updated molds and POK stems for enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, resulting in a clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel. While both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, users can expect a pleasant typing experience with either choice, albeit with slightly different characteristics. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, a bright and chirpy sound signature, and 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 switch with a lighter bottom out force, enhanced stem stability, and a smoother keystroke action with a clacky sound profile, then the KTT Miaowu linear switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired tactile feedback when deciding between these two switches to find the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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