KTT Miaowu vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer distinct features and advantages. The Miaowu switch from KTT is known for its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, thanks to its utilization of POK in the stem. It is described as 'bouncy' and 'clacky'. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is specifically designed with gamers in mind, offering effortless keystrokes and a pleasing bassy sound. With a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, it is categorized as 'easy-to-press', 'creamy', 'feathery', 'high-pitched', 'polished', and 'silky'. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
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
Gold-plated
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Miaowu and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Miaowu utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
While both switches have polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housings. The split between the bottom and top housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Miaowu's nylon bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the polycarbonate top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. The V3 Silver Pro's use of nylon for both top and bottom housings means that the deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by nylon is present throughout the typing experience. Despite this difference, both switches aim to provide a unique sound profile based on their housing materials.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing on a keyboard. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound, suitable for those looking for a more defined typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Miaowu offers a deeper and fuller sound, adding a different dimension to the typing experience. Ultimately, the difference in housing materials between the KTT Miaowu and the Akko V3 Silver Pro provides users with distinct options to cater to their preferred typing sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we can see that both switches are relatively light in terms of force needed to actuate and bottom out. The Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. Some may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the V3 Silver Pro, while others may opt for the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Miaowu for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for typing experience and force required for optimal performance.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, with the Miaowu having a slightly longer travel distance than the V3 Silver Pro. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Miaowu switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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
The Miaowu switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro offers a high-pitched sound, which is sharp and crisp. Depending on personal preference, the Miaowu may be preferred for its more percussive sound compared to the V3 Silver Pro's brighter tone. However, it's important to note that sound perception can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel. Conversely, the V3 Silver Pro is known for being easy-to-press, with a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro is described as creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced overall smoothness. Overall, both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Miaowu focusing on bounce and the V3 Silver Pro emphasizing a light and lubricated keypress.
In conclusion, the Miaowu linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound with a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, newcomers to mechanical keyboards may find one switch more appealing than the other. However, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their unique characteristics, providing a range of options for different users. Ultimately, trying out both switches will give a clearer understanding of which one aligns better with individual preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize stem stability, smooth keystroke action, and a clacky sound profile, the Miaowu may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for switches engineered for speed with a pleasing bassy sound, a light actuation force, and a variety of sensations like easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, then the V3 Silver Pro could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features and qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
