Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Huano Sakura (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Huano Sakura (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the ever-evolving realm of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, is designed for enthusiasts who appreciate a pronounced tactile bump, delivering a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Its higher-pitched sound profile adds a unique auditory element to typing, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a snappy and polished feel in their interactions. Conversely, the Huano Sakura linear switch caters to users seeking a smoother, uninterrupted experience, with its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, ideal for long typing sessions. This makes the Sakura enticing for those prioritizing comfort and speed without the tactile feedback that some users crave. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinct benefits, they cater to different preferences that can enhance your typing experience. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Huano Sakura feature distinct materials in their top housings, which significantly influence their overall sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, lending a sharper and crisper sound due to its rigidity and translucency. This choice not only facilitates clearer audio feedback but also enhances RGB lighting effects within the keyboard, emphasizing the visual aspect for users who prioritize aesthetics. In contrast, the Huano Sakura employs a polyketone (POK) top housing, which is renowned for its smoothness and durability, delivering a clackier sound profile that is still inviting but different in timbre from the polycarbonate. While both materials contribute to a high-quality typing experience, the polycarbonate’s stiffer characteristics yield a more pronounced top-out sound, whereas the POK structure aims for a more subdued yet distinct auditory feedback.
The bottom housing components of both switches share a common material, nylon, which evokes the same deep and full sound profile in typing experiences. Nylon is widely recognized for its ability to dampen sound waves due to its relative softness. When a user typestrokes, it absorbs vibrations effectively, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Since both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Huano Sakura utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they should demonstrate similar acoustic properties in this regard. The use of nylon in both switches establishes a common ground, confirming that users can expect a rich and deep sound bottoming out, despite the differences in the top housing materials.
Ultimately, together, the respective materials of each switch provide a unique typing experience influenced by their specific constructions. While the top housings differ significantly in their material choices, creating distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences, the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent auditory experience when pressing keys. This means that, although users might notice differing sensations and sounds during the top-out phase, the bottom-out experience remains largely consistent across both switches. Therefore, those who appreciate deeper, fuller sound profiles will find satisfaction in both models, while the nuanced differences in top housing will cater to varied auditory preferences during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro requires a moderate actuation force of 45 grams, with a bottom out force of 55 grams, positioning it as a medium-light option suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch is lighter, featuring an actuation force of just 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This significant difference in actuation force makes the Sakura particularly appealing for users seeking a lighter touch and easier key presses, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro caters to those who prefer a slightly more resistant feel. Consequently, the Akko switch is better suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, while the Huano switch is ideal for those prioritizing comfort during prolonged use. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preference for weight and feedback during typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a more pronounced depth when pressed, which can appeal to those seeking a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Sakura, with its shorter travel distance, may be favored by gamers looking for quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Huano Sakura would be the better choice, whereas the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro might be more suitable for those who value a deeper typing experience.
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 Huano Sakura (V2) comes in at $4.59 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 tactile switch produces a higher-pitched sound profile that can be quite pleasing to the ears. This led to a more pronounced auditory feedback that many typists find engaging during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura linear switch is characterized by medium acoustics, which contribute to a quieter typing experience. This means that while both switches have their unique sound qualities, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a more lively and audible feedback, while the Sakura provides a subtler sound that is often appreciated for its more discreet operation.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro excels with its combination of tactile feedback and responsive characteristics. With its accented and bouncy nature, the switch provides a robust tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor too subtle, making it suitable for those who appreciate a noticeable but not intrusive typing experience. The snappy response adds to the lively sensation. Furthermore, the polished feel of these switches enhances the overall experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key presses. In contrast, the feel of the Huano Sakura switch is not explicitly described here, but linear switches are generally known for their smoothness throughout the key travel without any tactile bump, making them ideal for users who prefer seamless, uninterrupted keystrokes.
Overall, if you are considering these two switches, the choice largely comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is perfect for those who desire a satisfying tactile experience along with an engaging auditory element, while the Huano Sakura linear switch caters to those who appreciate a smooth and quieter typing session. Both switches can deliver a fulfilling typing experience, but the unique qualities of each will appeal to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a tactile typing experience that offers a noticeable bump and a higher-pitched sound, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is likely your best bet. Its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and the combination of tactile feedback with a bouncy feel makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a lively typing sensation. This switch is particularly suitable for users who type for extended periods and prefer a more engaging sound profile. On the other hand, if you favor a feather-light touch and prioritize comfort during long typing sessions, the Huano Sakura switch with its lighter actuation force of 45 grams may be ideal for you. With medium acoustics and a smooth, refined feel, it can facilitate effortless key presses, making it a fantastic option for everyday use or for users who may experience fatigue with heavier switches. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, so consider what aspects of typing are most important to you as you make your decision.
Mentioned in this article
