Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro, with its fully polycarbonate construction, provides a bright and chirpy sound that appeals to users who enjoy a lively auditory feedback while typing. Its bouncy and polished feel enhances the overall typing experience, making rapid keystrokes feel effortless. Conversely, the WS POM+ is crafted from all-POM material, delivering a deeper, thocky sound that many enthusiasts find immensely satisfying. Its low-pitched and buttery-smooth keystrokes offer a more subdued auditory experience, perfect for those seeking a quieter typing environment. Both switches promise comfort and efficiency, yet their unique sound profiles and tactile feedback cater to different user 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
45g
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ exhibit distinct characteristics in their housing materials, with the V3 Crystal Pro utilizing polycarbonate and the WS POM+ employing POM (polyoxymethylene). The polycarbonate housing in the V3 Crystal Pro is designed to deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, owing to the material's stiffness which enhances resonance and clarity. This effect is particularly pronounced in its clear top housing, which not only facilitates a vibrant sound profile but also beautifully showcases RGB lighting through its translucence. In contrast, the WS POM+', with its POM top housing, produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, which offers a unique auditory experience that contrasts with the brighter tones of polycarbonate.
Both switches, while differing in their sound profiles due to their respective materials, also feature similar design intentions in their bottom housings. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing likewise contributes to a crisper sound, complementing the sharper tones from its top. Conversely, the WS POM+ with its POM bottom housing yields a deeper sound characteristic. This divergence in bottom housing materials affects the bottom-out feel and sound, with POM delivering a more muted experience compared to the clear resonance of polycarbonate. Users can expect a dramatically different auditory sensation when actuating each switch, as each bottom housing material carries its own unique influence over the performance of the switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials and resulting sound profiles, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer an enjoyable tactile experience. The qualitative differences arise primarily in the upper and lower ranges of sound produced due to the top and bottom materials used—polycarbonate's crispness versus POM's depth. Consequently, while a user might prefer the resonant clarity of polycarbonate or the muted depth of POM, they can still expect a satisfying experience from both switches, ultimately driven by personal preference. Each housing material, while distinct, plays a crucial role in shaping the overall acoustic character of the switches, leading to diverse yet rich sound experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The V3 Crystal Pro features an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the WS POM+, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This places the WS POM+ in the medium-light category, while the V3 Crystal Pro is classified as medium. Consequently, users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the WS POM+ more suitable, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may favor the V3 Crystal Pro due to its heavier feel. Both switches will deliver distinct experiences based on their push weights, with the V3 Crystal Pro being the heavier option overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option of the two, while the WS POM+ measures at 3.6 mm, resulting in a shorter travel distance. The preference for either switch can depend on individual gaming or typing styles—those who favor quick responsiveness may find the WS POM+ more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, while users who enjoy a more substantial feel might prefer the Akko’s deeper travel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different tactile experiences shaped by their respective travel distances.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 switch has a bright and chirpy tonality, which is less aggressive than some other switches but still offers a distinct auditory feedback. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is characterized by a deep, satisfying "thock" sound. This low-pitched sound delivers a rich and bass-heavy acoustic experience. If you're looking for a more pronounced auditory feedback, the WS POM+ is the likely choice, whereas the V3 Crystal Pro will provide a lighter sound that might appeal to those preferring a more subtle auditory presence. Both switches' sound can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but expect different signature qualities from each.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, giving you that rewarding spring-like feedback with smooth key travel thanks to its refined materials. This makes the typing experience not only lively but also exceptionally pleasant to interact with. The WS POM+, on the other hand, provides a buttery and silky feel, allowing for an incredibly seamless keystroke that requires minimal resistance. While both switches excel in providing a smooth typing experience, the Crystal Pro’s bounciness and polished nature contrasts with the fluidity of the WS POM+, catering to different preferences in tactile response.
In conclusion, when comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro to the Wuque Studio WS POM+, each switch brings its own unique characteristics to the table. The V3 Crystal Pro is focused on a bright sound and a lively, polished feel, making it great for those who enjoy a more active typing experience. Conversely, the WS POM+ impresses with its deep sound and smooth, buttery sensation, appealing to those who seek a quieter and more effortless typing style. Ultimately, which switch you prefer will depend on your personal taste, but you can expect two satisfying linears that each offer their own flavor of typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style needs. If you prefer a switch that provides a bit more resistance with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the V3 Crystal Pro may be your best bet. Its bouncy feel and bright, chirpy sound signature make it an excellent option for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. This switch's medium force can be particularly appealing if you frequently type for extensive periods or engage in fast-paced gaming, as the added resistance can help prevent accidental key presses. Conversely, if you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 55 grams, the WS POM+ is designed for you. The deep "thock" sound and buttery smooth keystrokes deliver a satisfying auditory and tactile experience that many users find enjoyable, particularly for those who value subtlety in their typing sounds. This switch excels in providing a silky touch that can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the bouncy and chirpy profile of the V3 Crystal Pro or the smooth and thocky sensation of the WS POM+, both switches stand out for their quality and unique characteristics, allowing you to tailor your mechanical keyboard experience to your preferences.
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