Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Kailh Sage offer two very different typing experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its linear switch design, providing a bouncy and polished typing feel with a bright and chirpy sound signature due to its fully polycarbonate construction. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage offers a clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness that is invigorating and crunchy. Depending on your preference for a smooth and quiet typing experience or a more tactile and audibly satisfying one, you may lean towards one of these switches. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Kailh Sage both feature polycarbonate top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with polycarbonate top housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design of the keyboard. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent sound profile and aesthetic for users looking for a particular typing experience.
While the V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, the Kailh Sage features a nylon bottom housing instead. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to stiffer plastics like polycarbonate. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the Kailh Sage offers a unique typing experience with a blend of sharpness and depth in sound.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Kailh Sage impact the sound profile and feel of each switch. The split between polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings of the Sage allows for a distinct typing experience, with each material contributing specific qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro maintains a consistent sound profile throughout due to its use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings. Regardless of these differences, both switches offer users a variety in typing experience, from sharp and clear to deep and full sound profiles.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Crystal Pro is 60 grams, which is lighter than the 70 grams needed to bottom out the Sage switch. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro offers a lighter overall typing experience compared to the Kailh Sage, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods. On the other hand, the Sage switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, which may be preferred by users who like a stronger push feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable choices for those who prefer quicker response times. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sage, which may be preferred by users who like a bit more depth to their keystrokes. However, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is characterized by a chirpy sound with a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences that can add to the overall typing enjoyment, with the V3 Crystal Pro having a bright and chirpy tone while the Sage has a weighty and sharp clickiness.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and refined finish. In comparison, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides an invigorating and sharp feel, offering pronounced feedback with a firm actuation force for a more immersive typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizing a lively and elastic feel, whereas the Sage focuses on a strong and crisp tactile bump.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch each bring a distinct set of qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, while the Sage is known for its crunchy sound and invigorating, sharp tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience that can enhance your overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you value a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness, the Sage switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer and what feels most comfortable to you.
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