Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique and desirable qualities. The V3 Crystal Pro is celebrated for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque stand out for their noise reduction design without the use of silicone dampeners, offering a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. While the V3 Crystal Pro is characterized by being 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the WS Silent Linear is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Subdued'. Each switch has its own strengths and benefits, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, it is evident that they each offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top and bottom housings are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top and bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the V3 Crystal Pro and WS Silent Linear use different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the impact of each material on the sound profile is split between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the qualities of the material being more pronounced in this aspect. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, highlighting the characteristics of the material in that specific moment. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings contributes to the overall typing experience of the switch.
Ultimately, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in switches like the V3 Crystal Pro and WS Silent Linear comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. While polycarbonate offers a sharper and crisper sound with a more resonant quality, nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile with a rounder tone. Whether one prefers the clarity of polycarbonate or the depth of nylon, both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the auditory experience of mechanical keyboards and cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the WS Silent Linear's unknown actuation force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel. However, the WS Silent Linear has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a balanced medium feel, while the WS Silent Linear leans towards the medium-heavy side. Both switches promise similar results in terms of typing experience, but it ultimately comes down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the WS Silent Linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro switch. The V3 Crystal Pro switch falls in between the traditional travel distances of 4.0 mm and 3.0 mm, offering a balanced depth for users. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch provides a shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding key feel and responsiveness.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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 V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy and distinct acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile with muted and subdued qualities, creating a quieter typing experience suitable for various environments. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard, including the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bouncy and polished typing experience, offering a lively and smooth key press with a polished finish. In comparison, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users, providing a comfortable middle-ground feel without any harsh characteristics. Whether you prefer a more energetic and refined typing feel or a milder and easygoing responsiveness will influence your decision between these two switches.
Considering all the available information, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Crystal Pro switch provides a chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, the WS Silent Linear switch focuses on a quieter sound with a mild and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a high level of responsiveness and quality, ensuring that regardless of your choice, you will achieve satisfying results in your typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the V3 Crystal Pro if you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a distinctive typing feel and acoustics. On the other hand, opt for the WS Silent Linear if you value a quieter typing experience with reduced switch noise and unparalleled responsiveness, particularly suitable for office settings or for those who prefer a more subdued sound profile. Ultimately, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing sensation, while the WS Silent Linear provides a mild and neutral feel. Make your choice based on the sound and feel characteristics that best suit your preferences and environment.
Mentioned in this article
