Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Mint, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro is renowned for its fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a distinctive bright and chirpy sound signature that offers a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mint provides a satisfyingly smooth linear feel with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem, offering a light and fleeting typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Mint is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch caters 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
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Mint, it is evident that both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing for a more resonant sound. However, the Mint's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Mint.
In terms of aesthetics, both keyboards benefit from the translucency of their polycarbonate top housings, making them ideal for RGB lighting setups. The V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Mint both prioritize visual appeal with their clear housings. However, the Mint's use of nylon for the bottom housing provides a different typing experience compared to the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. While both materials have their benefits, the Mint's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing sensation with a focus on sound depth and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Mint ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience. While both keyboards share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing materials sets them apart. Whether one prefers the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, each keyboard offers a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of aesthetics and RGB lighting capabilities, but the choice of bottom housing material will dictate the overall typing feel and sound profile of each keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that the Mint is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 48 grams. The bottom out force of the Mint is also lighter at 53 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This indicates that the Mint switch provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a balance between a light and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Mint's 4 mm travel distance. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly quicker keystroke due to its shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Mint's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feeling when typing for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keystroke depth 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 Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. This bright and lively sound signature adds a bit of fun to the typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Mint linear switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, giving off a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. While the Crystal Pro is more distinctive in its sound, the Mint offers a versatile sound that can suit a variety of preferences. The choice of keycaps and keyboard can also influence the sound of the switches.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is known for its bouncy and polished feel. With a spring-like feedback sensation and smooth key travel, typing on these switches can feel lively and refined. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The gentle feel of the Mint switch makes it approachable to most users, providing a comfortable and smooth typing experience. Both switches share a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and a sleek typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Pro provides a chirpy sound and bouncy typing experience, the Mint offers a low-pitched sound and a mild feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. With both switches featuring a polished finish, users can expect smooth and refined key travel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when selecting between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider choosing the V3 Crystal Pro if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, a bright and chirpy sound signature, and a silky smooth typing experience. The fully polycarbonate construction of the V3 Crystal Pro offers a unique feel and sound that distinguishes it from other switches. On the other hand, opt for the KTT Mint if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, a poppy thockiness sound profile due to its long pole stem, and a light and fleeting typing feel. The Mint provides a satisfyingly smooth linear switch experience that is suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to enhance your overall typing experience.
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