Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile 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 Tactile switch, it is evident that both offer unique features catered to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bouncy and chirpy sound signature, while also offering a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch from Wuque Studio is ideal for office environments, offering medium tactility with superior noise reduction, thanks to precision-engineered stem railings. This switch delivers a quiet yet crisp typing experience without the use of silicone dampeners. While the Crystal Pro switch offers a polished and lively typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile switch provides a more neutral and muted 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
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 Tactile, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The V3 Crystal Pro boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer nature. While the V3 Crystal Pro has a polycarbonate bottom housing that complements the top housing's characteristics, the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing to enhance the overall sound experience with its absorbing properties.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a more resonant and clear sound when pressing down on a key, thanks to its polycarbonate bottom housing. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile provides a deeper and rounder sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing. These differences in sound profiles can be attributed to the unique properties of polycarbonate and nylon, showcasing how the choice of housing material can significantly affect the overall typing experience. While both switches prioritize sound quality, they achieve distinct results based on the materials used in their top and bottom housing components.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more crisp typing experience. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to individuals who enjoy a more rounded typing feel. Despite their differences, both switches excel in providing a unique sound experience, showcasing how the choice of housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing sensation.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile needs 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of force required, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a slightly lighter touch and the WS Silent Tactile providing a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the WS Silent Tactile being slightly shorter than the V3 Crystal Pro. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Tactile 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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a uniquely chirpy sound, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch provides a more neutral and muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet office environments or for those who prefer a softer typing sound. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is known for its bouncy and polished sensation, offering a lively and smooth typing experience. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile switch delivers an invigorating and mildly accented tactile feedback, striking a balance between a firm actuation force and a comfortable typing feel. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile response, catering to different preferences based on the level of feedback desired during typing sessions.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a bright and unique sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience combined with a tactile feedback that is not overpowering, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you aim to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing feel, then the V3 Crystal Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value superior noise reduction in an office environment with a silent yet crisp typing experience, then the WS Silent Tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these switches boils down to whether you prefer a bouncy and polished feel with a medium bottom out force or an accented, invigorating feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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