Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is celebrated for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique sound and feel with a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a tactile typing experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and a captivating "thocky" sound from nylon housings, making typing engaging and satisfying. While the V3 Crystal Pro is best known for its bouncy and polished feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is characterized by its accented, clacky, and invigorating tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, one major difference is the material used for the top housing. The V3 Crystal Pro uses polycarbonate, known for its sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its relatively softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles between the two switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the WS Heavy Tactile utilize different materials. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, matching the characteristics of the top polycarbonate housing. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Heavy Tactile continues to provide a deeper and fuller sound, creating a balanced typing experience with the nylon top housing. It is interesting to note how the choice of material for the bottom housing can further enhance or complement the sound produced by the switch.
When it comes to pressing down on the keys, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing material, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of the switches demonstrate how the choice of material for each component plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile and typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro and WS Heavy Tactile may differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch needs 70 grams, making it heavier in this aspect. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a more balanced typing experience with its medium actuation and bottom out forces, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a bit more resistance for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy category, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly deeper keypress experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking swift key actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a longer, more deliberate keypress, and the WS Heavy Tactile providing a quicker, more responsive typing 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 Heavy Tactile 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique, chirpy sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch produces a clacky and resonant sound with hints of high-pitched tones, providing a crisp and immersive auditory experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Crystal Pro is known for providing a bouncy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek key travel. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, with a bouncy and snappy feel that makes typing engaging and reactive. Additionally, these switches are described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, ensuring a satisfying typing sensation.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, they both provide immersive typing experiences with their unique characteristics. If you prefer a brighter, chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the ideal choice for you. Conversely, if you enjoy a clacky, resonant sound with a sharp and invigorating tactile feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a great option for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a bright and chirpy sound signature accompanied by a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that delivers a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and captivating "thocky" sound from nylon housings, then the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a bouncy and polished feel or a more accented, bouncy, sharp, invigorating, and snappy tactile experience. Consider these factors carefully to ensure you select the switch that best suits your preferences and typing style.
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