Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Sakura Pink are two popular options that offer distinct characteristics for different typing preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are known for their super light 35g actuation force, making them ideal for delicate typists who prefer a feather-light touch. While the Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Sakura Pink offers a 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Frictionless', and 'Muted' typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you decide on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Sakura Pink both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which means that they will offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The use of polycarbonate in housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for switches that aim to provide a premium typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through and create a visually appealing effect.
However, while both switches share the same housing material, they may differ in terms of overall feel and performance due to other factors such as switch design and construction. The qualities of the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will affect the sound when letting go of a key. This means that even though the housing material is the same, the overall typing experience may still vary between the two switches based on these additional factors. Nevertheless, users can expect a certain level of consistency and quality from both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Sakura Pink due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the housing.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Sakura Pink, namely polycarbonate, offer similar advantages in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appearance. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it an ideal choice for switches that prioritize auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switches. While other factors may influence the overall typing experience, users can expect a consistent level of quality and performance from both switches thanks to their shared use of polycarbonate in the housing.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 48 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium weight switch. In comparison, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Sakura Pink offers a lighter touch ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to individual preferences, with the Akko V3 Crystal Pro being the heavier option and the Everglide Sakura Pink being the lighter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prefers a heavier or lighter actuation and bottom out force for their typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. The V3 Crystal Pro is slightly shorter than the Sakura Pink, making it potentially more appealing to gamers looking for faster response times. However, the Sakura Pink may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth to their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance 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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 provides a chirpy and unique sound signature, while the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch offers a muted and softer sound profile. The Crystal Pro switch's polycarbonate construction contributes to its bright and distinctive sound, which may appeal to those looking for a switch with a little squeak. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switch produces a quieter sound that is gentle on the ears, perfect for environments where noise may be a concern. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience. The bouncy nature of the switch gives a spring-like feedback, making the keys feel lively and providing a sense of rebound. The polished finish of the switch ensures smooth key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch delivers a buttery and creamy feel with an easy-to-press actuation. Typing on these switches is smooth and effortless, as the keys glide with ease and require minimal force to activate. The frictionless operation of the Sakura Pink switch adds to the seamless typing sensation, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Pro switch excels in providing a chirpy sound and a bouncy, polished feel, while the Sakura Pink switch offers a muted sound and a buttery, easy-to-press experience. Both switches provide smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, with the Sakura Pink switch being the lighter option with its 35g actuation force. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either of these switches can enhance your typing sessions with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the switch for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and value a feather-light actuation force with a smooth and effortless typing experience, along with a playful poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, then the Sakura Pink could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and what tactile and auditory experience you are seeking in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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