Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Pine mechanical keyboard switches, we can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch known for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, providing a delightful typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is a linear switch with a medium-heavy feel, buttery smooth key travel, and a factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for a creamy typing experience. While the Lavender Purple Pro offers a bouncy and snappy typing sensation, the KTT Pine provides a low-pitched and buttery feel. Each switch has its unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, making it essential to consider what type of typing experience you prefer. 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
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Pine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes both switches ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetics of the switches. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience.
While both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate in their top housings, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Pine differ in terms of their bottom housings. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. The bottom housing material has a notable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, making it an important factor to consider for those who prioritize typing comfort and sound feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a fuller sound with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro or a crisper sound with the KTT Pine.
In summary, while both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Pine share polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and resonant sound profile, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, while the KTT Pine provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Each housing material brings unique qualities to the switch, impacting the typing experience in different ways. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch both share a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them light and easy to type on. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro requires 55 grams, while the Pine switch needs 58 grams, making the Pine switch slightly heavier. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a lighter typing experience overall, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch offers a slightly heavier feel, which some users may find more satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which falls on the shorter side compared to the KTT Pine linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the KTT Pine provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, giving users a more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro being the shorter option and the KTT Pine being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key travel distance.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile that adds a unique flair to your typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch provides a bassier and lower-pitched sound that gives a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer distinct audio characteristics that can enhance the overall typing sound, depending on your preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized by its accented tactile feedback, bouncy sensation, snappy response, and polished finish, providing a balanced and tactile typing experience without being overwhelming. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal friction for effortless typing. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying feel while typing, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback and key travel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and KTT Pine switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched sound with tactile feedback or a bassier sound with smooth linear action, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a delightful and satisfying typing experience that suits your individual needs as a keyboard enthusiast.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch or the KTT Pine linear switch, you should take into account the specific characteristics of each switch and how they align with your typing preferences. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force, an accented and bouncy feel, and a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a buttery and creamy feel, and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Pine linear switch might better suit your typing needs. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and what kind of typing experience you are looking for.
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