Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and KTT Wine Red are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer unique differences that may cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is known 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 Wine Red switches offer a pillowy light typing feel and a deep, rich sound profile. While the Crystal Pro switch is described as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Wine Red switch is categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. These general characteristics give an overview of what each switch has to offer, 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
44g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Wine Red keyboards feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users looking for a distinct auditory experience while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of both keyboards. Despite being from different manufacturers, the similar choice of housing material ensures that users can expect comparable sound and visual effects from both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Wine Red keyboards.
While both keyboards share the same polycarbonate material for their housing, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Wine Red keyboards may differ in the design and construction of their housing components. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, any variations in the housing design between the two keyboards may result in subtle differences in typing experience, even though they both utilize polycarbonate. Users may find that one keyboard offers a slightly different tactile feedback or sound quality compared to the other, depending on how the housing materials are implemented in the overall design.
Overall, the choice of polycarbonate material for both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Wine Red keyboards showcases a commitment to delivering a high-quality typing experience. The use of polycarbonate ensures a sharp, crisp sound profile that is enhanced by the stiffer nature of the material. Additionally, the translucent properties of polycarbonate allow for the integration of RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to both keyboards. Whether you choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro or the KTT Wine Red, you can expect a similar typing experience characterized by clear, resonant sound and a visually pleasing aesthetic.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that the Wine Red is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Crystal Pro requires 48 grams of force for actuation and 60 grams for bottoming out, while the Wine Red only needs 44 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Wine Red may be beneficial for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, while the slightly heavier forces of the V3 Crystal Pro could provide a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In comparing the two, the Wine Red switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crystal Pro switch. The 0.2 mm difference may not be significant for some users, but for those who prefer a deeper key press sensation, the Wine Red switch may be more appealing. On the other hand, those who prioritize quicker response times may lean towards the Crystal Pro switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear feel, and whether you opt for the slightly shorter distance of the Crystal Pro or the slightly longer distance of the Wine Red, you can expect similar performance results in terms of keypress actuation.
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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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
While both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and KTT Wine Red switches are linear switches, they offer different sound profiles and typing experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro switches are known for their chirpy sound signature, providing a unique acoustic experience during typing. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, giving a deep and rich tone to key presses. When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switches are bouncy and polished, offering a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there isn't specific information available about the feel of the KTT Wine Red switches.
Overall, if you prefer a brighter and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switches would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile with a pillowy light type feel, the KTT Wine Red linear switches would be a great choice. It's important to consider personal preference and typing style when selecting the right switches for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and are sure to enhance your typing experience, providing different but equally satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and prefer a bright, chirpy sound signature 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 slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a pillowy light typ feel with a deep and rich sound profile, then the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be the perfect fit for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Consider your typing style and the type of typing experience you are seeking before making your final choice.
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