KTT Kang White vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the KTT Kang White and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, both linear switches with distinct features. The Kang White stands out for its exquisite poppy linear switch design, offering a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. Categorized as low-pitched and neutral, this switch provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is tailored specifically for gamers, boasting effortless keystrokes and a pleasing bassy sound. With a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, this switch is ideal in scenarios where quick inputs are crucial. Categorized as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, high-pitched, polished, and silky, the V3 Silver Pro caters to a different set of preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Akko V3 Silver Pro are quite similar, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the differences arise in the bottom housing material, with the Kang White using nylon and the V3 Silver Pro also opting for polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, which absorbs sound differently.
In terms of the top housing material, both the Kang White and the V3 Silver Pro offer similar sound profiles and aesthetics with their polycarbonate construction. The sharper and clearer sound produced by polycarbonate is consistent across both switches, catering to users who prefer a more defined typing experience. However, the contrasting bottom housing materials present a notable difference in sound output. The Kang White's nylon bottom housing provides a duller and rounder sound profile, while the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a unique mix of qualities, absorbing sound differently and contributing to a distinctive typing experience.
Overall, while the top housing material remains consistent in delivering a sharp and resonant sound profile, the bottom housing materials of the Kang White and the V3 Silver Pro diverge in their impact on sound and typing feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Kang White creates a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. This split in housing materials highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing when evaluating a switch's overall sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect distinct results from each switch based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch differ in weight, with the Kang White being medium and the V3 Silver Pro being light. The Kang White requires 45 grams of actuation force and 58 grams of bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro only needs 40 grams of actuation force and 45 grams of bottom out force, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kang White, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may opt for the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Kang White has a slightly longer travel distance, making it a more traditional option, while the V3 Silver Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance for those seeking a quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the V3 Silver Pro for its faster actuation, while those who prefer a deeper press may lean towards the Kang White. Both switches offer a different feel based on their travel distance, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance in your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver Pro for $3.10.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 Kang White linear switch provides a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch delivers a high-pitched sound, sharp and crisp when pressed, catering to users who prefer a brighter sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard's build and the type of keycaps used.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Kang White information is currently unavailable. However, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is described as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky. These qualities indicate that the switch offers a smooth, low-impact, and light typing experience, enhancing comfort and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. The combination of easy actuation and a silky feel ensures a pleasant typing experience for users.
In conclusion, while the KTT Kang White linear switch is known for its pleasing low-pitched sound and unparalleled smoothness in typing due to its self-lubricating material, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch stands out with its light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and a high-pitched sound designed specifically for gamers. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and usage scenarios, providing users with diverse options to choose from based on their individual typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, whether opting for the Kang White or the V3 Silver Pro, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with similar quality results.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a low-pitched, neutral sound profile and prioritize smoothness in your typing experience, the Kang White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking a high-pitched sound profile, with easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, or silky feel switches that offer minimal resistance and light actuation force, the Akko V3 Silver Pro could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences, and intended use for the keyboard. Choose the switch that best aligns with your needs and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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