Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique qualities 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. In contrast, the Taro switch boasts a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and acute clacks. While the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', the Taro switch falls under 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences and typing habits; 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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Jwick Taro differ significantly in terms of sound profiles. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is more resonant and clear. However, both switches use nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material also plays a role in the overall design of the switch. The Taro's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal but excels in providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its sound absorption properties. While the top housing material may differ between the two switches, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound quality regardless of the visual differences between the switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Jwick Taro comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The V3 Piano Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its nylon top and bottom housings, while the Taro provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness. Whether you prioritize sound quality or visual appeal, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Piano Pro is 55 grams, while the Taro has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the V3 Piano Pro provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall. Some users may prefer the V3 Piano Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where quick keystrokes are needed. On the other hand, the Taro switch may be more suited for those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer different levels of resistance to cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Piano Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Taro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the V3 Piano Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Taro switch provides a bit more depth, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding travel distance – whether one prioritizes speed and responsiveness or a more satisfying tactile experience.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, giving each keystroke a sharp and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile suitable for various typing environments and preferences. While the V3 Piano Pro delivers a lively and crisp sound, the Taro provides a cozy and medium-level of tactility with acute clacks.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is praised for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky sensations, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a buttery feel, giving users a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Both switches aim to offer comfort and satisfaction to users, albeit through slightly different tactile approaches.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch excels in providing a snappy and crisp sound signature, coupled with a smooth and pleasing tactile experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a cozy and moderate level of tactility with acute clacks, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, each with its unique charm. Ultimately, whether you choose the V3 Piano Pro or the Taro switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when you're deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a snappy sound signature with smooth actuation, 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 like a cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility, the Taro switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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