Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Kailh Sage 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 Sage stand out as popular choices with unique characteristics. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch beloved for its satisfying tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch known for its distinct clicky typing experience, featuring a heavy weight and sharp clickiness that adds a crunchy feel to each keystroke. Both switches offer their own set of advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
Both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Kailh Sage switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing to create vibrant effects. The similarities in the polycarbonate top housing of both switches suggest that users can expect a comparable sound experience with either option.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Kailh Sage switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can enhance the overall typing experience. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing of these switches highlights a focus on creating a more immersive sound and tactile feedback for users.
While both switches share similarities in their choice of housing materials, the allocation of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing allows for distinct qualities to be showcased in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials ensures a balanced typing experience that takes into account the nuances of both the press and release actions on the keyboard.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. Additionally, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Sage has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. For users looking for a switch with a stronger push feel, the Kailh Sage would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing pressure and the desired feel of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is 3.8mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular among users looking for faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches. However, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may find the 3.8mm travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel 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 Kailh Sage 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, creating a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a crunchy sound akin to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique and enjoyable auditory feedback, although the Sage switch may have a more pronounced and sharp clicking sound.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accentuated, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile feel with some bounce and responsiveness, as well as a smooth and refined key travel experience. In contrast, the Kailh Sage switch is known to be invigorating and sharp, providing pronounced feedback, firm actuation force, and a strong, crisp tactile bump with each keypress. Both switches excel in delivering a tactile typing experience, with the Sage switch potentially offering a more intense tactile feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch and the Kailh Sage switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile and a medium tactile feel with bounciness and smoothness, the Sage switch delivers a crunchy clicking sound and a more intense tactile experience with sharpness and pronounced feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, as both switches are capable of providing a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a satisfying tactile bump that contributes to a delightful typing experience, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a distinct clicky typing experience, and a sharp clickiness, then the Kailh Sage clicky switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lighter or heavier bottom out force, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics that best match your typing preferences.
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