Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Brown are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch known for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown is a tactile switch with a medium-light actuation force that strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, offering a familiar and delightful auditory experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal to different types of users. 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
N/A
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
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Brown, we see that the V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, whereas the WS Brown uses a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting with its translucency. On the other hand, the WS Brown's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softness. While the V3 Crystal Pro focuses on clarity and resonance, the WS Brown emphasizes a more rounded and dull sound quality.
Despite their differences, both the V3 Crystal Pro and WS Brown housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate housing in the V3 Crystal Pro creates a more clear and resonant sound, especially impacting the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the nylon housing of the WS Brown absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Thus, while the V3 Crystal Pro delivers a sharper and crisper sound, the WS Brown offers a more rounded and dull sound experience.
Overall, the choice between the V3 Crystal Pro and WS Brown housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon housing of the WS Brown offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both materials have their unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience, with the top and bottom housings playing different roles in impacting the sound profile. Ultimately, users can choose between the two based on their preference for clarity and resonance or depth and fullness in sound.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the WS Brown, which does not list a specific actuation force. However, the WS Brown has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the WS Brown may provide a lighter typing experience overall. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, making them suitable for a variety of preferences. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the WS Brown may be the better choice, while the V3 Crystal Pro would appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that when pressing down on either key, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a moderate travel distance while typing or gaming. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable amount of travel distance for users to enjoy a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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 unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's sound qualities are not specified. Depending on personal preference, the bright and chirpy sound of the V3 Crystal Pro may be more appealing to some users, especially when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provides a bouncy and polished typing experience, with a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's tactile feedback and overall feel are not specified. For users who value a lively feel and smooth key travel, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the preferred choice.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bright and chirpy sound signature, bouncy and polished feel, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's sound and feel qualities are not detailed. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can make an informed decision based on these subjective qualities. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort with a familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination, the WS Brown might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be lively and bouncy or polished and fatigue-free.
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