Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. 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 Tourmaline Blue offers a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy feel due to its lengthened single-stage spring. While the V3 Piano Pro is described as 'bouncy', 'clacky', and 'resonant', the Tourmaline Blue is characterized as 'buttery', 'easy-to-press', and 'mild'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
59g
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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue, we can see that the V3 Piano Pro features nylon housing while the Tourmaline Blue has polycarbonate housing. The use of nylon in the V3 Piano Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Tourmaline Blue produces a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Tourmaline Blue allows for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.
While the top housing materials of the V3 Piano Pro and the Tourmaline Blue differ in nylon and polycarbonate respectively, their bottom housing materials also follow the same pattern. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing material. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue adds to a sharper and crisper sound profile, mirroring the characteristics of its top housing material. This consistency in housing materials between top and bottom adds to the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The nylon housing of the V3 Piano Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Tourmaline Blue produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, with the added benefit of RGB lighting compatibility in the Tourmaline Blue thanks to its clear polycarbonate housing. Whether you prefer a rounder sound profile with nylon housing or a more resonant sound profile with polycarbonate housing, both switches provide a distinct typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are noticeable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for those looking for a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the V3 Piano Pro, allowing for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Everglide Tourmaline Blue for a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics, catering to different preferences based on actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Tourmaline Blue has a longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro. The difference may seem minimal, but it can make a significant impact on the typing or gaming experience. The V3 Piano Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for faster response times, favored by gamers, while the Tourmaline Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying keypress for those who prefer deeper key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and performance.
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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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 characterized by a clacky and resonant profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed with a higher-pitched and clean tone. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for most users with its moderate actuation force requirement. While the V3 Piano Pro delivers a lively and crisp sound, the Tourmaline Blue offers a satisfying thocky experience. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can expect distinct auditory experiences from each switch.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and refined finish. The Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, on the other hand, is characterized by a buttery, easy-to-press, and mild feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with gentle resistance during key presses. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, with the V3 Piano Pro focusing on bounce and smoothness, while the Tourmaline Blue offers ease of actuation and gentle typing feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Piano Pro and Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches present unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Piano Pro excels in delivering a snappy and lively sound profile, coupled with a bouncy and polished feel, providing users with a tactile and auditory delight. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue focuses on deep thocky sound with a balanced spring weight, offering a buttery and easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to different user needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches, consider the key characteristics of each switch. If you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a snappy, clacky sound profile with a bouncy and silky feel, then the V3 Piano Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a thocky, neutral sound profile, and a buttery, easy-to-press feel, the Tourmaline Blue could be the better option. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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