Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Jwick Taro mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a tactile typing experience that caters to keyboard enthusiasts. The Lavender Purple Pro is praised for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, giving users a delightful typing experience characterized by being accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. On the other hand, the Taro switches provide a comfortable and cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks, categorized as neutral, buttery, and stepped. Each switch has its unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these 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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Jwick Taro both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches are aesthetically pleasing with their translucent polycarbonate top housings, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, while the top housings are similar in material and resulting sound profile, the bottom housings differ between the two switches.
In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Jwick Taro have differing nylon bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Taro's nylon bottom housing also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile for a similar typing experience. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Jwick Taro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their nylon bottom housings. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with their housing materials contributing to the sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound with nylon, each switch provides a distinct typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Taro switch has an actuation force of unknown grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the Taro switch requires a heavier force to press all the way down compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces if they choose switches with similar weight characteristics.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches provide a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Taro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro providing a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial key press, while the Taro offers a slightly quicker and more responsive 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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro is characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile, while the Taro is noted for its acute and crisp clacks with a medium-level of tactility. Depending on personal preference, some users may find the higher-pitched sound of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro more pleasing, while others may prefer the crisper and more distinct sound of the Taro switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preference and the overall acoustic profile desired in a mechanical keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are described as providing a bouncy and polished typing experience with a medium level of tactility, offering a satisfying tactile bump without feeling overwhelming. On the other hand, the Taro switches are noted for their buttery and stepped feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a subtle two-stage tactile feedback. Both switches offer a different typing feel that caters to different preferences - whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump or a smoother keystroke.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Jwick Taro tactile switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel that can cater to a wide range of user preferences. Some users may find the higher-pitched sound and bouncy feel of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro more satisfying, while others may prefer the crisp clacks and buttery feel of the Taro switches. Ultimately, both switches provide a delightful typing experience and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is important to keep in mind the key differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute clacks, then the Taro switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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