Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro is praised for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light 45g bottom-out, making it ideal for light typists seeking comfort and ease. While the V3 Piano Pro is described as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Resonant', the Purple Star is categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. If you are looking for a vibrant and tactile typing experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro may be the right choice for you. Conversely, if you prioritize a smooth and light typing feel, the KTT Purple Star could be your go-to switch. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Purple Star differ in terms of the top and bottom housing materials used. The V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Purple Star incorporates a POM top and bottom housing. Both the nylon and POM materials create a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the nylon being described as softer and absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM material in the Purple Star is said to produce a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted.
Despite the difference in housing materials, both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and KTT Purple Star switches provide a pleasing typing experience with their respective nylon and POM housings. The nylon top and bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM top and bottom housing of the Purple Star offer a more muted and unique sound. These distinct characteristics cater to different preferences in sound and feel when typing, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
In terms of how the housing materials affect the overall typing experience, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro and the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star play a crucial role in determining the feel and sound when pressing down on the switches. Overall, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials, catering to users who appreciate a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Piano Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. The difference in force between the two switches could result in a more responsive and quicker typing experience with the Purple Star, while the V3 Piano Pro might provide a slightly more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is 3.5 mm, which is the same as the KTT Purple Star linear switch. This means that both switches offer a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. With a travel distance of 3.5 mm for both switches, users can expect consistent key press feedback and smooth typing performance. Whether you choose the V3 Piano Pro or the Purple Star, you can be confident in getting similar results with their identical travel distances.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is best characterized as producing a clacky and resonant sound. This means that when typing on the V3 Piano Pro switches, you can expect a sharp, snappy sound profile that adds a lively and percussive quality to each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound preference.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for providing a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. These descriptors point to a switch that offers a spring-like feedback sensation, smooth and buttery key presses, reduced friction, and exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance. Conversely, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is characterized as mild and easy-to-press. This means that the Purple Star switches offer a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys, making typing effortless and comfortable. Again, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Piano Pro excels in providing a lively, clacky sound signature and a tactile experience that is bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a low-pitched tone and a mild, easy-to-press typing feel that is comfortable and responsive. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preferences for sound, typing feel, and overall typing experience. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider how each switch aligns with your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a snappy, clacky sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the V3 Piano Pro may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound and mild, easy-to-press feel, the Purple Star switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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