PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are distinct differences in their design and intended use. The Milk Tea switch is perfect for those who prioritize a balance between a high-pitched sound and a muted essence, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions with its accessible bottom-out force of 43.5g. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch is tailored specifically for gamers, offering a satisfying bassy sound, light actuation force, and shortened travel distance for quick and precise keystrokes. While both switches offer unique characteristics and benefits, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended usage. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The POM top housing of the Milk Tea provides a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro emits a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is also beneficial for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea contributes to its unique sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Silver Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite the differences in their top and bottom housing materials, both the Milk Tea and the V3 Silver Pro offer a pleasing sound profile that enhances the typing experience. The POM material used in the Milk Tea's housing creates a sound that is on the deeper side, while the polycarbonate material in the V3 Silver Pro provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Both materials offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound profiles. Additionally, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the V3 Silver Pro absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea.
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is important to consider how each material affects the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. The POM and polycarbonate materials each bring their own qualities to the switches, creating unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both the Milk Tea and the V3 Silver Pro offer distinct characteristics that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is clear that both switches have relatively light forces. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 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 comfortable typing experience with minimal force required for key presses. The difference in force between the two switches is minimal, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, users who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Milk Tea switch, while those who prefer a slightly heavier force may opt for the V3 Silver Pro.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Akko V3 Silver Pro slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the PH Studio Milk Tea. The shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Silver Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the PH Studio Milk Tea may provide a more substantial feel when typing. However, both switches are within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in keyboards today. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted essence, creating a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. This switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant, providing a sharp, crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for producing a pleasing bassy sound, described simply as high-pitched. Depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup, users can choose between the more distinct auditory profile of the Milk Tea or the bassier sound of the V3 Silver Pro.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and effortless key travel. This switch ensures every keystroke feels effortless, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, featuring a light actuation force that makes typing comfortable and efficient. Described as creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, this switch offers a buttery typing experience with minimal resistance.
Overall, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch cater to different preferences and usage scenarios. The Milk Tea excels in providing a balanced sound profile with a focus on prolonged typing comfort, while the V3 Silver Pro prioritizes quick actuation and effortless typing for gaming purposes. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to tailor their keyboard experience to their specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and intended usage of the keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a switch with a unique auditory blend that offers a balance between presence and subtlety, along with a light bottom-out force for prolonged typing sessions, the Milk Tea may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for switches specifically engineered for smooth keystrokes, pleasing bassy sound, and minimal resistance for quick actuation, the V3 Silver Pro might be more suited to your gaming needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your typing style, preferences, and intended use of the keyboard. Each switch offers unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing or gaming experience, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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