TKC Kiwi vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Kiwi and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer a tactile typing experience that enhances your overall typing satisfaction. The Kiwi switch is known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that immerses you in your typing session. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile with a tactile bump, contributing to a delightful typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Kiwi switch is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished', the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and specific typing needs; 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
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilize different materials for their housing components, with the Kiwi featuring UHWMPE for both the top and bottom housing, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro opts for polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. The UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi provides a bright and resonant sound when typing, creating a unique auditory experience for users. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a clearer typing sound. While both materials bring their own characteristics to the table, the choice between them largely depends on individual preferences for sound and feel.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Kiwi's UHWMPE and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon offer contrasting sound profiles as well. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi contributes to its bright sound signature, enhancing the overall typing experience with resonant clacks. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more subdued and rounded auditory feedback for users. The difference in sound between the two bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and may cater to different preferences for typing sound and feel.
While the materials used for the top and bottom housing of the TKC Kiwi and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro differ, the impact of these materials on the typing experience remains significant. Users can expect unique sound profiles based on the combination of materials used in each switch's housing components. Additionally, the top and bottom housing materials play a role in dictating the sound when pressing down and releasing a key, providing a comprehensive auditory feedback for users. Ultimately, the choice between UHWMPE and polycarbonate for the top housing, as well as between UHWMPE and nylon for the bottom housing, will influence the overall typing experience and cater to individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 45 grams. However, the Kiwi has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams in comparison to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams. This means that while the Kiwi may require less force to initiate a keystroke, it will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, with its lighter bottom out force, may be more conducive to longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of key presses.
Travel distance
The comparison between the travel distance of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch reveals that the Kiwi has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Despite the small difference of 0.2 mm, this variance can affect the overall typing experience. The Kiwi offers a slightly deeper keypress, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding keypress depth and response time.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 TKC Kiwi offers a low-pitched tone with a moderate actuation force requirement, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch's sound profile is not specifically mentioned, but it is noted to contribute to a delightful typing experience, suggesting a potentially higher-pitched sound profile. It is essential to consider that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the TKC Kiwi switch is highlighted for its stepped design, providing a mild tactile experience with two stages of feedback. Additionally, it is described as an accented switch, offering medium tactile feedback without being overwhelming. The switch is also polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Conversely, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is also accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. It is noted as bouncy and snappy, offering spring-like feedback and a super responsive typing experience. Like the Kiwi, the Lavender Purple Pro switch is also polished for smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while both the TKC Kiwi and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches offer satisfying tactile feedback and a smooth typing experience due to their polished finish, they differ in sound profile and specific tactile characteristics. The Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched sound and a stepped, accented tactility, while the Lavender Purple Pro switch potentially offers a higher-pitched sound with bouncy, snappy feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile response, either switch can enhance the typing experience for newcomers seeking a quality mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. The Kiwi with its medium-heavy 67-gram bottom out force is ideal for those who prefer a slightly firmer keypress, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with its medium-light 55-gram bottom out force is better suited for a lighter touch. If you enjoy a low-pitched sound profile and a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the Kiwi may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound, a bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, the V3 Lavendar Purple Pro could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
