Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is known for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, providing a delightful typing experience for enthusiasts. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis switches are praised for their beautiful translucent design, light actuation force, and discernible tactile bump, making typing effortless and enjoyable with minimal finger fatigue. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro being categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', while the Phalaenopsis is described as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', 'Thocky'. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis, the first similarity that stands out is that they both use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design of the keyboards.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with this material. This contrast in bottom housing materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound output of the switches.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom can have a significant impact on how the switches feel and sound. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch. This distinction highlights the importance of considering all aspects of a switch's construction when selecting a mechanical keyboard, as it can greatly affect the user's typing experience and preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis's lighter 37 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro requiring 55 grams and the Phalaenopsis needing 50 grams. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis provides a lighter touch. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference, with those who prefer a lighter touch opting for the Phalaenopsis and those who prefer a slightly heavier push favoring the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and overall comfort for the user.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Phalaenopsis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. The difference between the two may not be significant, but it can influence the overall feel and performance of the switch. If you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Phalaenopsis may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro might be more suitable. Both switches can offer a tactile typing experience, but the travel distance is what sets them apart in terms of feel and preference. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis 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
The V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is known for its satisfying higher-pitched sound profile and tactile bump, providing an enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile, with a deep and rich tone during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference, keyboard setup, and keycap choice.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is highlighted by its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished qualities, offering a tactile feedback that is prominent yet not overwhelming. These features contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Phalaenopsis switch is characterized as stepped, providing a mild tactile sensation with two stages of feedback, allowing users to feel both pre-travel and post-travel during key presses. This difference in feel can cater to different typing preferences and play a role in determining the overall typing comfort and speed for the user.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for users. While the Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile and a delightful tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy sound and a stepped tactile feel. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, typing feel, and desired typing experience. Experimenting with different switches, keycaps, and keyboard setups can help users fine-tune their mechanical keyboard to suit their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, you should consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and a higher-pitched sound profile, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams and a beautiful translucent design that offers effortless typing with minimal finger fatigue, the Phalaenopsis switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and keyboard sound.
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