Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Akko V3 Piano Pro are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer a unique typing experience. The Crystal Pro switches are renowned for their fully polycarbonate construction, which results in a bright and chirpy sound signature, as well as a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Piano Pro switches feature a long pole design, providing a snappy sound signature that adds a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke, while still maintaining a smooth actuation. The Crystal Pro switches are categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', while the Piano Pro switches are categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky'. Both switches have their unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and tactile feel of the switches. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate material is relatively stiffer, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound, whereas nylon, being softer, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the V3 Crystal Pro and V3 Piano Pro utilize different materials - polycarbonate and nylon, respectively. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the V3 Crystal Pro provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing in the V3 Piano Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in material stiffness affects the sound and feel of the switches, with polycarbonate offering more clarity and resonance, while nylon absorbs sound, resulting in a softer tone.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches differ, their impact on the overall sound profile and tactile feel is significant. The qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the polycarbonate or nylon housing, each material contributes to the unique characteristics of these switches, offering users a choice between a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller tone.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, the actuation force of the Crystal Pro is 48 grams, while the Piano Pro is slightly lighter at 45 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force, meaning they provide a balanced typing experience in terms of required force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Crystal Pro is heavier at 60 grams compared to the Piano Pro's 55 grams, making the former switch slightly more substantial when pressing all the way down. This difference in bottom out force may result in a firmer typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push, while the lighter actuation force of the Piano Pro may be more suitable for extended typing sessions for some users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a quicker response time, the V3 Piano Pro might be the preferred choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a bit more depth when pressing down on a key, the V3 Crystal Pro with its longer travel distance may be more satisfying. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, so the choice between them depends 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 Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 known for its chirpy sound, which adds a unique squeak to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is described as clacky and resonant, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience, depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch is characterized as bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience. Meanwhile, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch also offers a bouncy sensation but adds a creamy and silky feel to each keystroke, creating a buttery and effortless typing experience. With similarities in the bouncy and polished descriptors, users can expect a lively and smooth feel from both switches, enhancing the overall typing comfort.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out for its bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a more snappy sound with a creamy and silky feel on each keystroke. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can elevate the typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality performance and tactile feedback from either switch, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the characteristics of each switch to match your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a brighter, chirpy sound and a smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy, clacky sound with a lively and crisp tactile feedback, the V3 Piano Pro could be the switch you're looking for. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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