Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Kailh Plum 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 Kailh Plum both offer unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is celebrated for its high-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, providing a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum stands out for its weightiness without a huge tactile bump, resulting in a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. While the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is accented and polished, the Kailh Plum is characterized as neutral and stepped. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Kailh Plum, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when using either the V3 Lavender Purple Pro or the Kailh Plum.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes nylon while the Kailh Plum also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, offering a more subdued typing experience compared to the crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housings, contributing to a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
In terms of how the housing materials impact the overall typing experience, the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Kailh Plum results in a balanced typing experience, with a focus on clear sound profiles and tactile feedback for users looking for a customizable and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is 55 grams, while the Plum has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it the heavier option. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference - if you prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options to match their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a longer travel distance compared to the Plum switch. The difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing experience for users. Those who prefer a more responsive and quicker feel may lean towards the Plum switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, users who enjoy a deeper and more deliberate keystroke may find the V3 Lavender Purple Pro more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience, while the Kailh Plum switch offers a neutral and enjoyable sound that is suitable for a wide range of users. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a tactile bump that is not overwhelming but still provides a satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch is described as mild and stepped, providing a gentle typing experience with a more subtle tactile feel compared to other switches. The Plum switch also offers a unique two-stage tactile feedback that sets it apart from many other tactile switches on the market.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Kailh Plum switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, users can expect a pleasant typing experience with either switch. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile with a prominent tactile bump or a more neutral sound with a gentle tactile feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch without a huge tactile bump but with a neutral sound profile, the Kailh Plum switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that best aligns with your preferences for a delightful keyboarding experience.
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