TKC Kiwi vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TKC Kiwi and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Kiwi is a tactile switch that provides a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, resulting in a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a smooth typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is a linear switch with a long pole design, known for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, creating a lively and crisp typing experience. While the Kiwi offers a tactile feel, the Piano Pro provides a smooth and consistent keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; 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
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both offer unique sound profiles when typing on switches. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housings provide a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top and bottom housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The UHWMPE material of the Kiwi creates a more vibrant and sharp typing experience, while the nylon material of the V3 Piano Pro offers a softer and more rounded sound.
Despite their differences, both the Kiwi and the V3 Piano Pro utilize housing materials that impact the sound and feel of typing on switches. The UHWMPE and nylon materials each have their own unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi may have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro absorbs more sound for a duller sound profile. Additionally, the top housing material of each switch affects the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer different sound profiles, they both play a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The bright and resonant sound of the UHWMPE material in the Kiwi contrasts with the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon material in the V3 Piano Pro. Understanding how these housing materials influence the sound and feel of typing can help enthusiasts choose the switch that best suits their preferences. Ultimately, whether opting for the brightness of UHWMPE or the depth of nylon, users can expect a unique and enjoyable typing experience with either of these switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we find that the Kiwi has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi is heavier at 67 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams. This means that the Kiwi provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the V3 Piano Pro offers a lighter actuation force for a smoother keystroke. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro, while those who enjoy a more significant push feel may opt for the TKC Kiwi. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Kiwi has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 3.5 mm. The 4 mm travel distance of the Kiwi is on the more traditional side, offering a more substantial depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a preferred choice for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - those who enjoy a deeper tactile experience may lean towards the Kiwi, while those prioritizing quick responsiveness may opt for the V3 Piano Pro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is described as clacky and resonant, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched and clean profile that adds a crisp and bright quality to each keystroke. While the Kiwi delivers a satisfyingly snappy sound, the Piano Pro offers a lively and immersive auditory experience with its distinct sound signature.
Moving on to feel, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feel, featuring two stages of feedback that are moderate and prominent in tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The polished finish of the Kiwi ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation when typing. Similar to the Kiwi, the Piano Pro also features a polished finish for a sleek typing experience with minimized resistance during key presses.
In conclusion, while the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities. The Kiwi excels in providing a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a stepped and accented tactile feel, enhanced by its polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Piano Pro stands out with its clacky and resonant sound signature, coupled with a bouncy and creamy typing experience that is also polished for reduced friction. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a premium typing experience that caters to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump and a snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi would be a great choice for you. The Kiwi switch offers a satisfying typing experience with its lightly factory lubed smoothness and effortless actuation. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a light bottom out force and a lively, crisp sound signature, the Akko V3 Piano Pro would be the better option for you. The V3 Piano Pro switch provides a smooth actuation while maintaining a pleasing tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice between the Kiwi and V3 Piano Pro switches would depend on whether you prefer a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump or a linear typing experience with a snappy sound quality.
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