Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Red are both excellent options to consider. The V3 Crystal Pro's fully polycarbonate construction sets it apart, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red stands out with a 22mm double-stage spring that offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience, along with a heavier actuation force for added weight to each keystroke. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. 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
67g
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
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Red both offer different housing materials for their switches, with the V3 Crystal Pro featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, and the WS Red sporting a nylon top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This difference in housing materials results in a distinct sound experience for each switch, catering to different preferences in sound quality.
Although both switches have different housing materials for the top and bottom, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro focuses on creating a clear and resonant sound when pressing down on the keys, while the nylon housing of the WS Red aims to provide a deeper and more muffled sound profile. This showcases how the housing materials of a switch can significantly impact the typing experience, from the initial press to the release of a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Red will depend on personal preference for sound profile. While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the WS Red's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches excel in their own unique way, catering to different typing preferences and offering a diverse range of sound profiles for users to choose from. Whether you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer distinct experiences that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Crystal Pro is also lighter at 60 grams compared to the WS Red at 67 grams, making it the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro may be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in regards to actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.8mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, they both offer a similar keypress experience with the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect consistent results in terms of key feel and actuation regardless of which switch they choose. Whether typing on the Akko V3 Crystal Pro or the Wuque Studio WS Red, both switches provide a smooth keystroke with a travel distance of 3.8mm.
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 Red 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
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique and vibrant typing experience with its chirpy sound profile and bouncy, polished feel. The fully polycarbonate construction contributes to a smooth typing experience that stands out from other switches on the market. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch provides a different typing experience with a heavier actuation force and a bouncy, responsive feel thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. While the sound profile of the WS Red is not specified, it is likely to provide a classic linear switch sound. Depending on personal preference, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. Whether you prefer the bright and smooth feel of the V3 Crystal Pro or the bouncy and substantial feel of the WS Red, you can expect satisfying results with either switch.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke, the WS Red would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that you prefer when typing.
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