Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, with the KTT Mint, a linear switch, it's important to note the distinct characteristics of each. The Lavender Purple V3 switches are beloved for their higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, making them a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts looking for a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Mint offers a smooth linear feel with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem, providing a light and fleeting typing sensation. Both switches have a polished feel, but the Lavender Purple Pro leans towards being accented and bouncy, while the Mint is more neutral and mild. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and KTT Mint both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. This material is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housings, it is important to consider the nuances in sound and feel that may arise from other components.
In terms of their bottom housings, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and KTT Mint both utilize nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material is known for creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to the overall typing experience and the tactile feedback felt during use.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and KTT Mint impacts the sound and feel of the switches in a distinct manner. While they share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differing nylon bottom housings result in unique typing experiences. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback can help enthusiasts make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, slightly heavier than the Mint's 53 grams. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro requires a slightly heavier force to fully press the key down compared to the Mint. In terms of weight, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is on the lighter side, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue may become an issue. On the other hand, the Mint offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, individuals should consider their preference for actuation and bottom out forces when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
The V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which makes it slightly shorter than the KTT Mint linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mint being more standard and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for its faster response times due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the KTT Mint with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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
The V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is known for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, providing a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Mint switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and setup.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers an accented and bouncy sensation with snappy feedback, providing a medium tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the switch is polished, offering smooth and refined key travel. The Mint switch, on the other hand, provides a mild typing experience with polished key travel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key presses. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback and smooth key travel, catering to different typing preferences.
Overall, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch and the Mint switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound profiles, tactile feedback, and key travel. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched sound with a satisfying tactile bump or a low-pitched sound with a smooth linear feel, both switches provide excellent options for a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and light linear switch with a poppy thockiness, the KTT Mint could be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
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