Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Orange offer distinct features catering to different preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch that provides a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts looking for an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange is a linear switch that boasts a bouncy feel with its 22mm long spring and a frictionless typing experience due to its polycarbonate milky top housing and factory-lubed components. Both switches have their own strengths depending on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smooth key travel. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Orange is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the KTT Orange features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offering a softer, more muted sound compared to the crisper sound of the KTT Orange.
On the other hand, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a similar sound profile of sharpness, higher pitch, and clarity. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both keyboards allows for a more resonant sound, making it ideal for users looking for a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in these top housings is beneficial for users who want to enhance their keyboard with RGB lighting. While the bottom housing materials differ between the two keyboards, the consistent use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures that users can expect similar sound profiles and overall aesthetics.
In summary, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Orange keyboards share a commonality in their polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, crisp sound profile that is ideal for users seeking a resonant typing experience. The key point of divergence lies in their bottom housing materials, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizing nylon for a deeper, fuller sound, and the KTT Orange opting for polycarbonate for a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between these keyboards will come down to individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall user experience.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively similar actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Orange's 46 grams, while the bottom out forces are also close, with the V3 at 55 grams and the Orange at 53 grams. Both switches fall into the category of medium-light in terms of force required. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to register a keystroke and fully press down on the key. Ultimately, individuals may prefer the V3 switch if they want a slightly lighter actuation force, while the Orange switch may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Orange switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it could potentially affect the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Orange switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile, while the KTT Orange switch provides a low-pitched and mellow tone. The sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard and keycaps used. Moving on to the feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as having an accented and bouncy feel, providing a medium tactile experience that is not overwhelming. Additionally, the switch is noted for its snappy and polished characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is known for its bouncy and frictionless feel, providing a spring-like feedback and a slick, effortless typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile and auditory qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and KTT Orange switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, you should choose the V3 Lavender Purple Pro if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a delightful tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile. This switch offers a polished and bouncy typing experience that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, you should opt for the KTT Orange switch if you prefer a low-pitched sound profile and a frictionless, bouncy typing experience. These switches provide a smooth key travel with a spring-like sensation that is responsive and effortless. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a tactile bump and higher-pitched sound or a frictionless, bouncy typing experience.
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