Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Strawberry mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a unique typing experience but with distinct characteristics. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, thanks to its low-pitched, frictionless, and buttery operation. While the Crystal Pro switch is labeled as bouncy and polished, the Strawberry switch is described as silky and polished. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and appeal, offering a variety of aspects to consider when choosing the best one for your preferences. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Overall, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Strawberry utilize polycarbonate material for both their top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar sound profile with sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper tones. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends itself to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches where sound is a priority. Aesthetically, the translucency of the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of both keyboards.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the V3 Crystal Pro and the Strawberry brings consistency to the sound profile of each switch. The material's stiffness contributes to a sharper and more defined sound, making typing on these keyboards a satisfying experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate adds a visually striking element to the keyboards, especially when paired with RGB lighting effects, further enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches.
While both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Strawberry feature polycarbonate material for their housing, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings can affect the typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, the overall sound profile of both switches remains consistent due to the use of polycarbonate material throughout, resulting in a similar typing experience for users of either keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams while the Strawberry needs 62 grams, indicating a slightly heavier typing experience for the Strawberry. Both switches fall under the category of medium actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing feel for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, while those who desire a bit more resistance might opt for the KTT Strawberry. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Strawberry switch. A shorter travel distance can provide a faster response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch with its slightly longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and deeper keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and response time.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy and unique acoustic signature, providing a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is known for its low-pitched tone, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. Both switches have their own characteristic sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy and polished, offering a spring-like feedback with a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, and buttery, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Each switch offers a different tactile sensation, with the V3 Crystal Pro focusing on lively feedback and smooth key travel, while the KTT Strawberry prioritizes fluid travel and uniform typing sensation.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have their own unique sound and feel qualities that can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Depending on whether you prefer a chirpy sound with bouncy feedback or a low-pitched sound with frictionless typing, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch. Take into consideration your personal typing style and the keyboard setup to determine which switch better suits your needs in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the following recommendations based on your preferences. If you prioritize 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 switch with a low-pitched sound and a frictionless, silky, buttery typing experience, the KTT Strawberry switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value the unique characteristics of the Crystal Pro or the smooth and reliable performance of the Strawberry. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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