Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Wine Red mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, some key differences and similarities emerge. The Akko V3 Piano Pro, with its unique Piano Pro switches, is celebrated for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches offer a pillowy light feel with a deep and rich sound profile, creating a satisfying typing sensation. While the Akko V3 Piano Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', the KTT Wine Red is classified as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics 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
44g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Wine Red, it is evident that they offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different properties. The V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Wine Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. This difference in material ultimately impacts the overall typing experience and the sound produced by each switch.
Similarly, the distinction in housing materials extends to the bottom housing of both switches, further contributing to their unique sound profiles. The V3 Piano Pro's nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing, produces a deeper and fuller sound, creating a consistent typing experience with rounder tones. On the other hand, the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing adds to the switch's sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall clarity and resonance of the typing sound. This showcases how the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound output of each switch.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the KTT Wine Red may differ in their housing materials, they both offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon housing in the V3 Piano Pro or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Wine Red, both switches provide unique typing experiences that are tailored to individual preferences. This highlights the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, showcasing how even small design elements can make a significant impact on the user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, both have similar bottom out forces of 55 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when fully pressed. However, the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams, making it a tad easier to trigger keystrokes. The difference in actuation force may not be significant, but for those who prefer a lighter touch, the V3 Piano Pro might be the preferred choice. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Wine Red could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is 3.5mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. The V3 Piano Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Wine Red switch. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Wine Red switch might offer a more satisfying depth to the key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Wine Red switch being slightly longer than the V3 Piano Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key 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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 by its clacky and resonant sound profile, offering a sharp and percussive sound that is bright and clean. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound that is deep and rich, setting a more mellow tone during key presses. Depending on personal preference, the V3 Piano Pro may be preferred for its crisp and lively sound, while the Wine Red may appeal to those seeking a deeper and more immersive auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a variety of tactile sensations that enhance the typing experience. With a spring-like feedback and smooth, buttery keystrokes, users can expect a seamless and refined typing feel. In contrast, information about the specific feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch is not available, so it's unknown how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch may appeal to those looking for a switch with a snappy, clacky sound and a variety of feel options including bouncy and creamy sensations. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a deep, rich sound profile but lacks specific information on its tactile feel. Ultimately, personal preference and typing experience will play a significant role in determining which switch is the better fit for individual users. If both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of sound and feel, users can expect to achieve comparable results in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a snappy and clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, the V3 Piano Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and rich sound with a pillowy light feel, the Wine Red switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be lively and crisp or satisfyingly deep and rich. Both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
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