Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, it is clear they each bring their unique features to the table. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is celebrated for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts looking for a bouncy and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switches offer a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overpowering. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is accented and snappy, the Purple Sakura is buttery and mild. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share the polycarbonate top housing, the distinction lies in their bottom housings. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in a slightly crisper bottom-out sound and feel. This difference in bottom housing material highlights how the overall sound and feel of a switch can be influenced by the combination of materials used in its construction.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Sarokeys Purple Sakura may come down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches offer the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro stands out for its deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon bottom housing. Alternatively, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura may appeal to those who prefer a crisper sound experience, particularly when releasing a key. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired sound profile.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 requires 55 grams compared to 60 grams for the Sarokeys. This means that while the Sarokeys switch is heavier in terms of actuation force, the Akko V3 is heavier in terms of bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium-light to medium range of tactile switches, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or a heavier push feel 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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the Lavender Purple Pro. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, even a fraction of a millimeter can make a difference in their typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura may appeal to users looking for a faster response time, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Lavender Purple Pro may provide a more substantial and satisfying feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 profile, adding a unique auditory component to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch produces a neutral sound, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Both switches can provide a satisfying typing sound, albeit with a difference in tone.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a tactile sensation that is responsive and refined. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is characterized as buttery, mild, and snappy, providing a smooth and gentle typing experience with a hint of tactility. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, appealing to different preferences in terms of tactility and feedback.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Lavender Purple Pro offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a responsive, polished feel, while the Purple Sakura provides a neutral sound with a buttery, mild typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience that caters to different tastes in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and tactile response.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with a bottom out force of 55 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Purple Sakura with a bottom out force of 60 grams may be the better choice. Additionally, consider the sound and feel profiles of each switch. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, while the Purple Sakura provides a neutral sound profile with a snappy and buttery downstroke feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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