Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, distinct differences can be noted. The Crystal Pro switches are known for their fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound signature, offering a silky smooth typing experience categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Silver Pro switches are designed specifically for gamers, providing effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, featuring a light actuation force and shortened travel distance categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Creamy', 'Feathery', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', and 'Silky'. While the Crystal Pro switch may offer a unique sound and feel, the Silver Pro switch prioritizes speed and efficiency. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, producing a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. On the other hand, the Silver Pro features a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound quality and feel, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience of the switches. When comparing the two models, the V3 Silver Pro may provide a more muffled and subdued sound due to the nylon bottom housing, while the V3 Crystal Pro with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing produces a clearer and crisper sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable during bottom-out moments when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the V3 Silver Pro comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While the Crystal Pro may appeal to those who prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Silver Pro caters to individuals seeking a deeper and fuller sound profile. It's important to consider how the top and bottom housing materials of a switch interact to create a distinct typing experience. Whether you prioritize clarity and resonance or a more muffled and round sound, both models offer their own unique qualities based on the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro has a higher actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Silver Pro ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Crystal Pro offers a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier force. Both switches provide different levels of tactile feedback, catering to individuals with varying preferences in typing resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the V3 Silver Pro has the shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. The difference in travel distance may result in a slightly faster response time for the V3 Silver Pro, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize quick reactions. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bit more depth in key travel, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel 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 Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver 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 distinguished by its chirpy sound signature, giving a unique squeaky quality to each press. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp audio feedback with each keystroke. While both switches have their distinct sound characteristics, the final sound experience may also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is noted for its bouncy and polished qualities, offering a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation with a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for being easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, and polished, providing a gentle resistance during key presses, a smooth and buttery typing experience, exceptionally light key presses, and a sleek typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort and performance through their specific tactile qualities.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique sound and feel experiences tailored to different preferences and needs. While the Crystal Pro switch provides a bright and chirpy sound paired with a bouncy and polished feel, the Silver Pro switch delivers a pleasing bassy sound with an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, and polished sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches promise a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring quality performance for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force that provides a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force that is specifically designed for gamers, offering a pleasing bassy sound, light actuation force, and shortened travel distance, then the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your priorities in terms of sound, feel, and intended use when choosing between these two switches to ensure you get the best typing experience for your preferences and requirements.
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