Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue are two popular options to consider. The V3 Crystal Pro is known for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switches provide a deep and thocky sound profile, accompanied by a bouncy feel with each keystroke thanks to a lengthened single-stage spring. While the Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Tourmaline Blue is described as 'Buttery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their unique qualities, making them appealing choices for different 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
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which means that they will offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches will deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing for a visually appealing look.
Despite sharing the same housing materials, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Everglide Tourmaline Blue may differ in other aspects such as stem type, spring weight, and overall switch design. These differences can impact the overall typing experience, as factors such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and key travel distance can vary between switches. While the housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound profile of a switch, other factors also contribute to the overall feel and performance of the switch.
In conclusion, the use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue will result in a clear and resonant sound profile with a sharp and crisp sound. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Despite these similarities, other differences in switch design and construction may affect the typing experience, making it important to consider all aspects of a switch when choosing the right one for your needs.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is evident that the Tourmaline Blue has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a heavier option. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a more comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Tourmaline Blue offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, we can see that the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm compared to the Tourmaline Blue's 4mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Tourmaline Blue being closer to the standard 4.0mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro's shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper press might opt for the Tourmaline Blue with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference in terms of key press feel and response.
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 Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue 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
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is known for its chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, providing a bright typing experience with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue offers a deep and thocky sound profile with a buttery, easy-to-press feel, creating a satisfying and effortless typing sensation. While both switches offer distinct qualities, they both provide a pleasant typing experience, showcasing the versatility and quality of linear switches in the mechanical keyboard market. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both options will deliver a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force with a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force with a deep and thocky sound profile, coupled with a bouncy feel and easy-to-press keys, the Tourmaline Blues could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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