Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer two distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its delightful combination of a higher-pitched sound and a satisfying tactile bump, making it an enticing choice for typists who enjoy auditory and physical feedback with each keystroke; it embodies characteristics like being accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. In stark contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), a linear switch, promises an exceptionally smooth typing experience, thanks to its Ly stems, and offers a resonant sound profile that prioritizes fluidity over tactile feedback. This switch may appeal more to gamers or those who seek a quieter typing experience, allowing for rapid key presses without the interruption of tactile bumps. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both feature polycarbonate top housings, a choice that significantly shapes their acoustic performance. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, promotes a sharper and crisper sound profile, resulting in heightened clarity and resonance when the switches are actuated. The translucency of the polycarbonate material also enhances aesthetic appeal, particularly for users keen on RGB lighting, making both switches visually striking when illuminated. This similarity in top housing material means users of either switch can expect a vivid, high-pitched sound during usage, ensuring a consistent auditory experience.
While the top housings of these switches are identical in material, the bottom housings diverge with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Tomcat (Heavy) both incorporating nylon. Nylon, as a softer plastic, contributes a deeper and more rounded sound profile, absorbing sound more effectively than stiffer materials. This leads to a unique tactile experience; when typing on either switch, the nuanced sound and feel generated by the nylon bottom housing will be distinct from the sharper characteristics of the polycarbonate top. Consequently, the combination of materials in both switches leads to an overall sound that merges the brightness of the polycarbonate with the warmth of the nylon.
In summary, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) possess shared elements in their construction that produce complementary effects on their overall sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing ensures a bright and resonant typing experience, while the nylon bottom housing offers a contrasting depth and fullness. Users can expect a similarity in the upper sound dynamics due to the polycarbonate tops, while the tonal qualities of the bottom housings will blend harmoniously, creating a well-rounded auditory experience across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch with the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, particularly suited for prolonged use such as extended work sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke feel. This difference in weight means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro can be more forgiving for long typing marathons, while the Tomcat (Heavy) provides more tactile feedback for those who enjoy a firmer push. Ultimately, if users prefer a lighter touch, the Akko switch would be the better option, whereas those seeking a heavier, more robust experience might lean towards the Bsun switch.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch exhibit a subtle difference in travel distance, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro measuring at 3.8 mm and the Tomcat (Heavy) at 3.6 mm. This makes the Tomcat switch the shorter option, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly deeper travel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. For users seeking responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Tomcat switch could provide faster actuation, making it more suitable for gaming. Conversely, those who appreciate a more traditional feel may find the additional 0.2 mm in the Lavender Purple Pro provides a satisfying depth that enhances their 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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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 produces a higher-pitched sound profile that offers a pleasant auditory experience during typing. This characteristic sound can resonate nicely, making each keystroke feel satisfying. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches deliver a more resonant sound profile, which tends to be deeper and more substantial. Although they both produce distinctly different auditory signatures, it's essential to remember that the overall sound quality can vary greatly depending on the keyboard build, including the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro stands out for its medium tactile feedback, which is balanced enough not to overwhelm the typist while still providing a notable tactile bump. This switch has a bouncy and snappy response, giving that fresh, lively sensation with each keystroke that is further enhanced by its polished finish, reducing friction for a smoother typing experience. The Tomcat (Heavy) switches, while not thoroughly characterized in the feel department, are known to be engineered with Ly stems that promote a smooth and unencumbered typing sensation. This suggests a focus on fluidity, though it lacks the tactile feedback that the Lavender Purple Pro delivers.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, both bring unique qualities to the typing experience. The Lavender Purple Pro leans towards a lively tactile feel with a high-pitched sound, while the Tomcat focuses on delivering a resonant and smooth experience. Depending on one's typing style, either switch can elevate the keyboard experience, ensuring enthusiasts can find joy in their tactile or linear preferences. Ultimately, it is this diversity that makes the world of mechanical switches so engaging.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch should be guided by your personal preferences for typing feel and sound as well as the type of tasks you usually engage in. If you enjoy a lively and responsive tactile typing experience, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is an excellent choice with its medium-light actuation and polished finish that provides a delightful balance of tactility without being overbearing. Its bouncy and snappy characteristics make it ideal for those who appreciate a fun and engaging typing experience while also being suitable for general use, including gaming and typing. Conversely, if you prefer a heavier feel and a more linear typing experience, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch would be your go-to option. With a bottom-out force that's medium-heavy and a super smooth feel thanks to the Ly stems, these switches are perfect for those who prefer a consistent keystroke without tactile feedback, allowing for rapid and fluid typing, especially suited for gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the type of feel and sound you desire from your keyboard—whether that’s the tactility and responsiveness of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro or the smooth and heavier experience offered by the Tomcat (Heavy).
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