KTT F2 vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the linear KTT F2 switch and the tactile Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch. The KTT F2 switches stand out with a distinct hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. With a medium-light weightiness, they offer a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel for added tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches combine a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, elevating the typing experience for enthusiasts. The V3 switches are characterized by their accented and bouncy feel, creating a polished typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the resonance of the switches, making them ideal for RGB lighting due to their translucency. On the other hand, while the F2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing for a consistent sound profile, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite both keyboards utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the KTT F2 and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing continues the trend of providing a sharp, clear sound profile, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. This showcases how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a consistent sharp and clear sound profile across both keyboards. However, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart, with the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintaining the crisp sound profile while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards would depend on personal preferences when it comes to the typing experience and sound profile desired.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch both have medium-light actuation and bottom out forces, with the F2 being slightly lighter at 43 grams/53 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro at 45 grams/55 grams. The difference in force between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of weight. When comparing actuation force, the F2 requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a comfortable balance between lightness for extended typing sessions and enough force for a satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 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. This means that the V3 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the F2. In terms of preference, gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the F2 with the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the V3. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the F2 being more responsive and the V3 providing a deeper keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT F2 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
In terms of sound, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a neutral and somewhat subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch's higher-pitched sound profile offers a more distinct and satisfying auditory experience. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, each switch will produce a unique sound that contributes to the overall typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, perfect for those looking for a comfortable and light touch while typing. The lightly textured feel of each keystroke adds a subtle tactile nuance that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides an accented and bouncy feel, with a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, ensuring comfortable extended use.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch each bring their own unique sound and feel to the table, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the F2 offers a medium-light weightiness and a neutral sound profile, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a higher-pitched sound and a more prominent tactile bump. Depending on individual preferences, both switches offer a delightful typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a unique hollow sound signature and a lightly textured feel in your typing experience, the KTT F2 linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. The medium-light weightiness of the F2 ensures a comfortable typing experience without being too forceful or too fleeting. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is the way to go. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a delightful combination of features for keyboard enthusiasts, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preference for sound and feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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