Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT MoonRosa both offer unique features worth exploring. The V3 Crystal Pro is renowned for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound profile along with a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switch boasts an all-POM construction for a buttery smooth feel and neutral sound. While the Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the MoonRosa is described as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their distinct advantages, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT MoonRosa play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the mechanical switches. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the resonant qualities of the switches. On the other hand, the MoonRosa features a POM top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the V3 Crystal Pro allows for the switch to have a more transparent appearance, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. The clear polycarbonate material enhances the visual aesthetics of the switch while also contributing to its distinct sound profile. In contrast, the POM top housing of the MoonRosa may not offer the same level of transparency, but it brings a unique sound experience with its deeper and more subdued tones. Both housing materials have their own advantages in terms of sound and aesthetics, catering to different preferences.
When comparing the bottom housing materials of the two switches, the impact of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro and POM in the MoonRosa becomes evident in the bottom-out sound and feel. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a crisper bottom-out sound, while the POM in the MoonRosa results in a more muted experience. The separation of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches allows for a nuanced sound profile that caters to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, whether opting for the V3 Crystal Pro or the MoonRosa, users can expect a unique sound experience based on the housing materials chosen for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro has a higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the MoonRosa's 37 grams, making the V3 Crystal Pro slightly heavier in this aspect. Similarly, the V3 Crystal Pro has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, while the MoonRosa has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating that the V3 Crystal Pro is also heavier when it comes to bottoming out. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lighter touch may find the MoonRosa to be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the MoonRosa has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the MoonRosa for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more solid and deeper keystroke may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the V3 Crystal Pro providing a slightly longer travel distance than the MoonRosa.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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, giving it a distinct acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch provides a low-pitched sound, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to individual preferences, with the V3 Crystal Pro leaning towards a brighter and more lively sound, while the MoonRosa delivers a more neutral and calming sound experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing experience. The bouncy nature of the switch provides a spring-like feedback, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, the polished finish contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and allowing for smooth key travel. As for the KTT MoonRosa switch, it offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience. The mild characteristics provide a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users, while the easy-to-press nature requires minimal force to activate the keys, making typing effortless and comfortable.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro excels in providing a bright and chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished typing feel, while the MoonRosa offers a low-pitched sound with a mild and easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between these switches to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and can deliver similar results based on your desired characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, you should consider several factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, then the MoonRosa switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.