Huano Grape Orange vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly impact your typing experience, particularly when comparing the Huano Grape Orange and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both of which are linear switches designed to enhance performance in distinct ways. The Grape Orange switch is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, making it an excellent option for users who prioritize comfort and wish to minimize fatigue during marathon typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a unique blend of auditory and tactile feedback with its long pole design, delivering a snappy sound signature that adds a lively quality to each keystroke while maintaining a smooth actuation. For those who enjoy the sensation of a polished and resonant keystroke, the V3 Piano Pro can provide a joyful typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you're seeking a feather-light feel or a more engaging auditory response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Akko V3 Piano Pro Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Akko V3 Piano Pro diverge significantly in their composition. The Grape Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and optical translucency. This choice of polycarbonate leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially beneficial for highlighting RGB lighting effects. The resonance and clarity provided by the polycarbonate allow for a more distinct auditory experience when keys are released. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material properties. This fundamental difference in the top materials inherently affects the characteristics of sound produced when typing, as the Grape Orange emphasizes higher frequencies while the V3 Piano Pro tends toward lower frequencies.

Both switches do share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the Grape Orange and the Akko V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon for this component. Nylon's inherent softness distinguishes itself by absorbing more sound, leading to a rounder and less resonant sound profile. As a result, when pressing down on either switch, users can expect a uniformly deeper and fuller auditory sensation, regardless of the differing top materials. This consistency in the bottom housing allows both switches to deliver a particular sound experience that is characterized by their material's ability to dampen noise, ensuring that the bottom-out sound remains pleasant and cohesive, demonstrating an interesting blend of sound dynamics.

Overall, while the top housings of the Grape Orange and V3 Piano Pro are designed to produce different sound profiles, they find common ground in their nylon bottom portions, creating a more harmonious typing experience. By blending the properties of polycarbonate in the Grape Orange's top with nylon in both models’ bottoms, users can achieve varied auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. In this way, even with contrasting top materials, both switches can provide enjoyable tactile feedback, complemented by a clearly defined sonic palette that remains consistent due to the shared characteristics of their nylon foundations.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom-out forces highlight their distinct characteristics. The Grape Orange has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 55 grams, positioning it as a medium-light switch. This makes the Akko switch a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While both switches provide a linear feel, the Grape Orange is designed for users who might prioritize comfort over prolonged use, whereas the V3 Piano Pro caters to individuals seeking a bit more resistance during keystrokes.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the longer of the two switches, offering a more pronounced depth when pressing down on the keys. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to those who prefer a more responsive feel, as it allows for quicker actuation. While the difference is minimal, it highlights the subtle preferences that gamers and typists may have; a shorter travel distance like that of the V3 Piano Pro can facilitate faster response times, whereas the Grape Orange may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who appreciate deeper keystrokes. Both switches, although different in millimeters, can yield a similar typing experience depending on individual preference for travel depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Huano Grape Orange switch leans more towards a muted or subdued quality, which provides a quieter typing experience conducive to environments where distraction might be a concern. This makes it a particularly versatile option for those who prefer a more understated auditory feedback during their typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch boasts a lively and pronounced clacky sound signature, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. The higher-pitched resonance adds a dynamic flair to every keystroke, making it highly satisfying for those who enjoy auditory cues while typing.

When it comes to the tactile experience, the Grape Orange switch is lauded for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, delivering an effortlessly smooth typing experience that reduces finger fatigue, particularly during extended use. While the specific tactile characteristics of the Grape Orange are not mentioned, it can be anticipated that this lightweight action contributes to a swift and responsive feel. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro switches are described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a luxurious typing experience. Their construction facilitates reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring that each keystroke glides seamlessly, attracting typists who appreciate a refined and smooth sensation.

In summary, both the Huano Grape Orange and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you favor a quiet, light touch for extended typing sessions, the Grape Orange is likely to meet your needs effectively. However, if you prefer a robust and engaging auditory feedback combined with an indulgently smooth typing experience, the Piano Pro will be more appealing. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a subdued auditory environment over a lively and dynamic experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Huano Grape Orange and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended use. If you value a feather-light typing experience that allows for extensive typing sessions with minimal finger fatigue, the Grape Orange switch is the ideal option for you, especially if you appreciate a more subdued auditory profile. Its low actuation force of 40 grams makes each keystroke feel effortless, allowing you to type quickly and comfortably. On the other hand, if you’re attracted to a more dynamic sound experience and a creamy, polished feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro would be a better fit. With its medium-light 55 grams bottom-out force and responsive, clacky sound signature, the Piano Pro switches provide that satisfying auditory feedback and smooth actuation that many typists and gamers enjoy. Therefore, consider your typing habits, sound preferences, and overall aesthetic when making your choice, as both switches bring unique qualities to enhance your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Akko V3 Piano Pro Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more