Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the PH Studio Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature paired with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch offers a high-pitched yet muted sound profile, with a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. The accessible bottom-out weight and effortless keystrokes make it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. While both switches offer polished typing experiences, they differ in the sound they produce and the material used in their construction. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
Ly
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the PH Studio Milk Tea, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their materials. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the Milk Tea features POM housing for both its top and bottom, producing a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Despite using different materials, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
While the top housing of the V3 Crystal Pro and the Milk Tea may have different materials, they both play a significant role in determining the overall sound of the switch. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's POM top housing creates a unique, pleasing sound profile with deeper tones. Despite these differences, both materials offer a distinct sound experience that can enhance the typing or gaming experience for users. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro allows for stunning visual effects when paired with RGB lighting.
In terms of overall performance, the choice between polycarbonate and POM housing in the V3 Crystal Pro and Milk Tea can significantly impact the user experience. While polycarbonate creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, POM housing on the Milk Tea offers a deeper, more muted sound. These differences in housing material can influence not only the sound but also the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Ultimately, selecting a switch with the desired housing material can personalize the auditory and tactile experience to suit individual preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Milk Tea's lighter 37.5 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the Milk Tea only needs 43.5 grams. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a more medium resistance, providing a balance between light and heavy typing. On the other hand, the Milk Tea is considered a lighter option, ideal for those who prefer a softer touch when typing. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a lighter or heavier typing experience based on the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch. Ultimately, weight is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance for different users' needs.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for some users who prefer a deeper press. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch's shorter travel distance may be more suited for those seeking quick and efficient typing or gaming experiences. In general, both switches offer similar results due to their relatively close travel distances, catering to different preferences based on the slight variations in their travel distances.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 is known for its chirpy and distinct acoustic signature, standing out with a unique sound that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a more balanced and muted sound profile, with a high-pitched yet gentle essence that provides a pleasing auditory experience. Both switches bring their own character to the table, appealing to different preferences in keyboard sound profiles.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth finish for a lively and sleek feel. Conversely, the Milk Tea switch boasts a polished and silky feel, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance for effortless typing. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, catering to users who value a refined typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Crystal Pro switch has a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the Milk Tea switch stands out with a balanced sound and polished, silky feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, but rest assured that regardless of the choice made, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches, consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a bright, chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched, muted sound profile designed for prolonged typing sessions, the Milk Tea switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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