Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro is renowned for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear boasts a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, along with a silky smooth type feel. While the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', the Semi-Silent Linear is classified as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Butter', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers distinct advantages, catering to users who prefer different sound profiles and typing experiences. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, the two switches offer contrasting experiences based on their top and bottom housing materials. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound. The difference in stiffness between nylon and polycarbonate results in distinct audio feedback when typing on these switches, with the V3 offering a more muted and rounded sound compared to the clear and resonant sound of the Semi-Silent Linear.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the V3 Piano Pro and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear use nylon material, providing a consistent experience in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the differences in the top housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of each switch. This combination of housing materials in both switches allows users to experience a nuanced typing experience that is influenced by the unique properties of each material.
Overall, the V3 Piano Pro and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer a blend of contrasting and complementary qualities through their housing materials. While the V3 Piano Pro delivers a deeper and softer sound profile with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a crisp and resonant sound experience with its polycarbonate top housing. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches allows for a dynamic typing experience that incorporates the unique characteristics of each material. Whether you prefer a more muted typing experience or a clear and resonant sound, both switches offer a distinct audio feedback that caters to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Piano Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear which has an unknown actuation force. The V3 Piano Pro also has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category, but the Semi-Silent Linear can be considered slightly heavier due to its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro may be the better choice, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro switch. The 0.2 mm difference may not be significant to some users, but it could impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the V3 Piano Pro switch for faster response times, while those who enjoy a slightly deeper press may lean towards the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. Both switches offer a comfortable travel distance that is within the range of typical preferences for mechanical keyboard users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and response.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and lively auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch boasts a subdued and neutral sound profile, offering a more subtle and versatile typing experience. While the V3 Piano Pro delivers a crisp and bright sound with a higher pitch, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a quieter topping-out sound with a moderate overall sound profile. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, users may opt for the more resonant and lively sound of the V3 Piano Pro or the subdued and versatile sound of the Semi-Silent Linear.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is known for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key press with a spring-like feedback. Conversely, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing sensation, delivering a gentle and fluid keystroke with super responsiveness. Both switches aim to provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, with the V3 Piano Pro focusing on lively and bouncy feedback while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more approachable and uniform sensation. Depending on the desired typing feel, users can choose between the more spring-like and polished feel of the V3 Piano Pro or the gentler and buttery feel of the Semi-Silent Linear.
Taking into account the sound and feel characteristics of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, users can expect vastly different typing experiences based on their preferences. The V3 Piano Pro excels in delivering a lively and crisp sound with a bouncy and creamy key feel, providing a tactile and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear focuses on a subdued and neutral sound with a mild and buttery typing feel, offering a more gentle and versatile typing sensation. Ultimately, users should consider their sound and feel preferences, as well as the surrounding environment, when selecting between these two switches to achieve their optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a snappy, resonant sound with a bouncy or creamy feel, the V3 Piano Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subdued, neutral sound with a mild or snappy feel, the Semi-Silent Linear may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to consider what qualities matter most to you when making your decision.
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