Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro and KTT Pine linear switches are two options worth comparing. The V3 Piano Pro features the snappy and lively Piano Pro switches, known for their crisp sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a pleasing tactile experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switches are medium-heavy and buttery smooth, designed for an effortless typing experience with a factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for smooth key travel. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Pine offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Pine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile attributed to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the nylon housing of the V3 Piano Pro provides a duller and rounder sound compared to the clear and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate housing of the Pine.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Pine also showcase the contrasting properties of nylon and polycarbonate materials. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, reflecting its relatively stiffer plastic makeup. While both housings play a significant role in enhancing the typing experience, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro creates a more rounded and dull sound compared to the clear and resonant sound generated by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine.
In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, such as the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Pine, the qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, with the nylon bottom housing offering a deeper and fuller sound in the V3 Piano Pro, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine provides a sharper and crisper typing experience. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, with the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro contributing to a rounder and duller sound, in contrast to the clear and resonant sound profile produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Pine.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive to keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter force of 55 grams, while the Pine switch has a slightly heavier force of 58 grams. This means that the V3 Piano Pro may feel slightly easier to press all the way down compared to the Pine switch. This difference in bottom out force may be preferred by users who like a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Pine linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Pine switch would provide a slightly longer distance for users to feel when pressing down on a key compared to the Piano Pro switch. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference - for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Piano Pro would be the better option. However, if a user prefers a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel, the Pine switch would be the suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision would come down to individual preference and the specific feel that each user is looking for in a linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized as producing a clacky and resonant sound, adding a sharp and snappy quality to each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the V3 Piano Pro emphasizing crispness and liveliness, while the Pine focuses on depth and richness in sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for providing a bouncy and creamy typing experience, with a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery feel attributed to factory lubrication. Additionally, the polished finish of the V3 Piano Pro switch offers reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. The KTT Pine linear switch, on the other hand, is described as buttery and creamy, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness in typing, ensuring a satisfying tactile sensation for users.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Piano Pro excels in providing a snappy, lively sound signature and a bouncy, creamy typing experience with a polished finish, the KTT Pine stands out for its buttery smooth sound profile and effortless typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer high-quality performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a delightful and immersive typing experience. Whether opting for the Akko V3 Piano Pro or the KTT Pine, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a snappy, crisp sound signature with smooth actuation, the V3 Piano Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with minimized friction, the KTT Pine switch could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky or resonant sound profile and a bouncy or silky typing feel, the V3 Piano Pro might suit your preferences. Conversely, if you prefer a bassy or low-pitched sound profile and a buttery typing sensation, the KTT Pine switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force.
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