KTT Grapefruit vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch stand out as unique options for discerning users. The Grapefruit switches offer a soft and light typing experience with a distinct "baritone" sound profile, categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and polished. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple V3 switches provide a higher-pitched sound and a satisfying tactile bump, giving a bouncy and snappy feel, categorized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference based on your typing style and sound 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that leads to clear and resonant sounds. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboard. With both keyboards sharing this feature, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when typing on either the Grapefruit or the V3 Lavender Purple Pro.
However, where the keyboards differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Grapefruit features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Grapefruit. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar deep and full sound profile. This shared material choice for the bottom housings of both keyboards ensures consistency in the typing experience for users seeking a specific sound profile.
When considering the overall typing experience, the different housing materials in the top and bottom of the switches play a crucial role. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, contributing to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, adding to the auditory feedback users receive while typing. By understanding how each housing material influences the sound profile and feel of the keyboards, users can make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
Both the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, which means they will feel the same when initially pressing the keys. However, the Grapefruit has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams, making it slightly easier to fully press the keys on the Grapefruit switch. This difference may not be very significant in terms of overall typing experience, as both switches fall into the medium-light category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Grapefruit switch may be the better option, while individuals who prefer a slightly more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Lavender Purple Pro switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, we can see that the Grapefruit has a slightly longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's 3.8 mm. Both options fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Grapefruit being slightly on the longer side. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lavender Purple Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Grapefruit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 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 KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, giving off a mellow and bass-heavy tone that is suitable for various environments and typing preferences. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch's sound profile is not specified, so it is difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, both switches can be customized with different keyboard setups and keycaps to achieve desired sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch provides a polished typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction, making it enjoyable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience, providing a medium tactile feedback that is neither too subtle nor overwhelming. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different typing preferences.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch each offer distinct characteristics that appeal to different types of keyboard enthusiasts. While the Grapefruit switch provides a low-pitched sound and a polished typing feel, the Lavender Purple Pro switch offers an accented tactile feedback and a satisfying rebound effect. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, but both switches promise a delightful and customizable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider the characteristics that align with your typing preferences. If you prefer a softer and lighter feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump and a bouncy, snappy feel with a polished finish, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the experience you are looking to achieve while using your mechanical keyboard.
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