Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The V3 Crystal Pro features a linear switch design, known for its fully polycarbonate construction that influences both sound and feel, resulting in a bright and chirpy typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis offers a tactile switch experience, with a light actuation force of 37g and a satisfying tactile bump at 50g, making each keystroke a delightful sensation while minimizing finger fatigue. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater 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
37g
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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis are quite similar as they both utilize polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is also beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for the light to shine through, creating a visually appealing effect. In terms of sound and feel, the polycarbonate housings in both keyboards will likely produce similar results, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the way in which these materials impact the overall typing experience may differ slightly between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The qualities of the bottom housing material are more prominent when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, as this is where the majority of the force is exerted when typing. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key, adding a layer of complexity to the overall typing sound profile. Despite these nuanced differences, both keyboards are likely to offer a satisfying typing experience with the use of polycarbonate in their housing materials.
In conclusion, the similarities in housing materials between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis ensure that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and feel when typing on these keyboards. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, resulting in a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to both keyboards. Whether you choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro or the KTT Phalaenopsis, you can be confident in the quality and consistency of the typing experience provided by the shared housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch. The V3 Crystal Pro requires 48 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, making it more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis only requires 37 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option that allows for quicker typing and a smoother feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Phalaenopsis more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we can see that the V3 Crystal Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Phalaenopsis has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both falls within the range of preferred travel distances. The difference of 0.2 mm may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who are particular about the feel of their keyboard, it could make a difference in terms of responsiveness and feedback. Gamers, for example, might prefer the V3 Crystal Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Phalaenopsis with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 acoustic signature, setting them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch provides a bassy sound profile with a satisfying thocky sound during key presses. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, making them suitable choices depending on the desired typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a stepped feel, featuring a two-stage tactile feedback that is more mild compared to hyper-tactile switches. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer either a bouncy and polished feel or a stepped tactile sensation.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch both offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Pro switch provides a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, along with a bouncy and polished feel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, with a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, as well as a stepped feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience. However, it's worth noting that if a user prefers a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, they can achieve similar results with the Crystal Pro switch, while those who prefer a bassy sound with a stepped tactile feel can opt for the Phalaenopsis switch for a comparable experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, a bright and chirpy sound profile, and a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, a satisfying tactile bump, and effortless typing with minimal finger fatigue, then the Phalaenopsis switch might be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to further guide your decision based on what aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features and qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs for an optimal typing experience.
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