KTT Darling vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, boasts a typing sensation that is described as chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to keystrokes. In terms of sound, the Darling produces a resonant, high-pitched noise upon bottoming out, creating a blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump that contributes to a delightful typing experience. While both switches have their own appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro are quite similar in terms of their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience from both switches when it comes to the top housing material.
However, where the switches differ is in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. The Darling's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience, with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly varied sound and feel when typing on the switches.
Overall, while both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials offer slightly varied typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Darling and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro brings a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Users looking for a switch with a specific sound profile may want to consider the differences in bottom housing material when choosing between these two options.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch are quite similar, both having an actuation force of 45 grams. The Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Lavender Purple Pro, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This difference is subtle but may be noticeable to those who prefer a slightly firmer typing experience. Overall, both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them great options for prolonged typing sessions. Users who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Darling, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Lavender Purple Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the KTT Darling. Generally, a longer travel distance can offer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience, as you feel more resistance and depth when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance can provide a quicker response time, which is preferred by gamers for faster inputs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 KTT Darling linear switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant characteristics, producing a sharp and crisp sound that is both engaging and immersive. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, creating a delightful typing experience. While both switches provide unique sound profiles, the Darling emphasizes a more pronounced and springy auditory feedback, whereas the Lavender Purple Pro focuses on a more subtle and pleasing sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, on the other hand, is noted for being accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This switch delivers a medium tactile feedback with a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle, making typing feel responsive and dynamic. The polished finish of the Lavender Purple Pro also contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling excels in providing a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness, while the Lavender Purple Pro offers a delightful combination of high-pitched sound and satisfying tactile feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Darling or the Lavender Purple Pro, you can expect a rewarding and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial feel with a pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out, the KTT Darling would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying bounce, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing sensation and auditory feedback you desire in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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