Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch stand out as top contenders. The Akko V3 Piano Pro features the Piano Pro switches, which are praised for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple offers a big tactile bump that delivers an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, silky, the Polaris Purple falls under neutral, mild, polished. When choosing between these switches, consider whether you prefer a linear switch with a snappy sound like the V3 Piano Pro or a tactile switch with a big bump like the Polaris Purple. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The V3 Piano Pro's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting.
Despite their differences, both the V3 Piano Pro and the Polaris Purple switches utilize housing materials that impact the sound profile in a significant way. While the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon keypress, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound. Additionally, the choice of housing material for the top of the switches further influences the overall sound experience, with nylon providing a rounder sound and polycarbonate producing a crisper sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple hinges on the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences of the user. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with nylon providing a softer and duller sound while polycarbonate offers a sharper and clearer sound. Whether typing on switches with nylon or polycarbonate housing, users can expect a distinct sound experience tailored to their preferences, with each material contributing to the overall feel and sound of the switch in its own way.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we see differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Piano Pro has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple has an unknown actuation force but a noticeably heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, leading to a medium-heavy typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro for longer typing or gaming sessions, while users seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Polaris Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a more satisfying depth when pressed due to its longer travel distance. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the faster response of the V3 Piano Pro or the more substantial feel of the Polaris Purple. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches are well-known for their snappy and crisp sound profile, described as clacky and resonant. These switches provide a lively auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches offer a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Overall, if you prefer a more sharp and percussive sound, the V3 Piano Pro switches may be the better choice.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Piano Pro switches are characterized by their bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with smooth and buttery key presses. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer a mild and polished feel, with a safe and approachable typing experience that is suitable for most users. If you prefer a more lively and bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, the V3 Piano Pro switches may be more to your liking.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches provide a snappy and crisp sound signature along with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a lively and smooth tactile feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, making them a versatile option for a wide range of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, but both switches offer quality and enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for bottom out force and sound and feel characteristics. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a snappy sound with a smooth actuation, then the V3 Piano Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced tactile bump for a more exhilarating typing experience, then the Polaris Purple switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider these factors when choosing the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences.
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