Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, and the KTT Wine Red, a linear switch. The Lavender Purple V3 switches offer a unique combination of features, including a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts for its 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished' characteristics. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches are praised for their pillowy light type feel and deep, rich sound profile, making them stand out for their 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched' qualities. While these general descriptions provide a basic understanding of each switch, let's delve deeper to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Wine Red utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar sound profiles that are sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This choice of material enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches, making them ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetically pleasing element to the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro opts for a nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a more muted typing experience. On the other hand, the use of polycarbonate for the Wine Red's bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material.
In terms of typing feel, the bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced and well-rounded typing experience with distinct characteristics contributed by each housing material. Whether one prefers the deep and muted sound of nylon or the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Wine Red offer unique typing experiences catered to different preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch both have similar bottom out forces of 55 grams, making them medium-light in weight. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a lighter actuation force, making it easier to type on for longer periods without experiencing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Wine Red provides a slightly stronger push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation force for your typing needs.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Wine Red linear switch. Despite the small difference in travel distance, both switches fall within the range of traditional distances. Gamers may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, providing a faster response time. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the KTT Wine Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth 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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a higher-pitched sound profile, while the KTT Wine Red provides a deep and rich bassy sound. The Lavender Purple Pro switch produces a delightful and pleasing sound during key presses, whereas the Wine Red switch offers a more luxurious and full-bodied tone. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics, with the Lavender Purple Pro leaning towards a higher pitch and the Wine Red towards a lower frequency range. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as being accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities result in a tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a lively and responsive typing experience with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red's feel characteristics are unknown. However, based on the provided description of being pillowy light, it can be inferred that the Wine Red switch may offer a soft and cushioned typing sensation without the tactile bump present in the Lavender Purple Pro switch.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and KTT Wine Red linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile and a tactile typing experience with its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, the Wine Red switch offers a deep and rich bassy sound along with a pillowy light type feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, both switches can cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, you should opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro if you prefer a delightful tactile bump, an accented and bouncy feel, and a higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pillowy light feel, a deep and rich sound profile, and a bassy and low-pitched sound during key presses, the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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