Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is well-loved for its higher-pitched sound profile, satisfying tactile bump, and attributes including being 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple stands out for its big tactile bump, which provides an exhilarating typing experience, as well as a 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished' categorization. Each switch has its own advantages and characteristics that may appeal to different users. 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
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, we find that both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a sharp and clear sound profile throughout.
While the top housing materials of both keyboards are the same, with polycarbonate providing a distinct sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a softer and fuller sound experience, ideal for those looking for a more muffled typing sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile, catering to those who prefer a crisper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preferences regarding the sound and feel of typing.
When considering the impact of housing materials on typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of each material will be felt differently depending on whether it is used in the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing material, such as nylon or polycarbonate, will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a keyboard plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience, allowing users to customize their keyboard to their preference.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that their actuation and bottom out forces vary significantly. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, resulting in a medium-heavy typing feel. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the Polaris Purple would be better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial and forceful keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it could be noticeable to those who are more sensitive to such variations. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prefer faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch offers a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, creating an exhilarating tactile typing sensation. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro leaning towards a higher-pitched sound and the Polaris Purple offering a snappier tone.
In terms of feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile experience with spring-like feedback and a smooth finish. Conversely, the Polaris Purple switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro providing a more lively and prominent tactility, while the Polaris Purple offers a gentler and more approachable feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lavender Purple Pro switch is best suited for those seeking a higher-pitched sound profile and a lively tactile experience, while the Polaris Purple switch caters to individuals looking for a snappier sound and a mild tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Lavender Purple Pro offering a more accentuated tactile bump and lively feel, and the Polaris Purple providing a smoother and gentler typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a more accented, bouncy, snappy, or polished feel, along with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a mild, polished feel, along with a big tactile bump and snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch may suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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