Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Rose mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro, with its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, provides a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose stands out for its use of progressive springs, offering a substantial but not heavy typing feel with bassy raindrop-like sounds. While the V3 Piano Pro is described as 'bouncy', 'clacky', 'creamy', 'polished', 'resonant', and 'silky', the Rose is characterized as 'low-pitched', 'neutral', 'mild', and 'polished'. Both switches have their own appeal, 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
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Rose both feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the top housing of the V3 Piano Pro is made of nylon, while the Rose's top housing is crafted from polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Rose creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. The difference in top housing material between these two keyboards influences the overall sound produced when typing.
On the aesthetic side, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the KTT Rose allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual experience of the keyboard. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of transparency for RGB lighting effects. However, both keyboards share the same nylon material for their bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing on the switches. While the top and bottom housing materials may differ between the two keyboards, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Rose plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. The nylon bottom housing in both keyboards creates a consistent deep and full sound when typing, while the differentiation in top housing materials results in varying sound characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Rose produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more defined typing experience, while the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro offers a duller and rounder sound profile. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for these keyboards cater to different preferences in sound and style, providing a range of options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, although the actuation force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Akko V3 Piano Pro more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those looking for a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the KTT Rose switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on the desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Rose linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Piano Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the KTT Rose provides a deeper keystroke feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the V3 Piano Pro being shorter and faster, while the KTT Rose is longer and provides a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 described as having a clacky and resonant sound profile, offering a sharp, snappy sound with a higher-pitched, immersive experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. Depending on individual preferences, the V3 Piano Pro may be preferred for its lively and crisp sound, while the Rose switch may appeal to those looking for a smoother and more neutral auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, with keys that feel lively, smooth, refined, and exceptionally smooth. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle feel with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Individuals who enjoy a more spring-like, buttery, and refined typing sensation may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro, while those seeking a gentle and polished typing experience may find the KTT Rose switch more to their liking.
Considering the subjective qualities of both the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, individuals looking for a snappy, clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy tactile feel may prefer the V3 Piano Pro. On the other hand, those interested in a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound with a mild and polished typing sensation may gravitate towards the KTT Rose switch. Ultimately, personal preferences for sound and feel should guide the decision-making process, ensuring that the chosen switch aligns with individual typing preferences and desired tactile feedback. While each switch offers its unique qualities, selecting either option would likely result in a satisfying typing experience based on the desired auditory and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a snappy sound signature with a smooth actuation, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force but still want a unique typing experience with progressive springs that offer a substantial yet not heavy feel, then the KTT Rose linear switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, so your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience.
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