KTT Purple Star vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Purple Star and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Purple Star offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out ideal for light typists, while the V3 Silver Pro is engineered specifically for gamers with a pleasing bassy sound and light actuation force. The Purple Star is categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press', while the V3 Silver Pro is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Creamy', 'Feathery', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', and 'Silky'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing material of the KTT Purple Star, POM, is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users. While the POM housing may provide a more subtle and calming typing experience, the polycarbonate housing offers a vibrant and lively sound with each keystroke. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, adding a visual dimension to the typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the KTT Purple Star features POM, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in sound profiles can affect the overall typing feel and auditory experience for users. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, providing a quieter typing experience, while the POM housing creates a more pronounced sound with each keystroke.
Overall, the choice of housing material between the KTT Purple Star and the Akko V3 Silver Pro plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While the Purple Star's POM housing creates a unique and pleasing sound, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Similarly, the differences in bottom housing material - POM for the Purple Star and nylon for the V3 Silver Pro - contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, users can select a housing material based on their preference for sound profile, typing feel, and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required for keystrokes. The Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the V3 Silver Pro slightly lighter in both aspects. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, both switches would provide a comfortable experience. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches are on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Akko V3 Silver Pro a popular choice in that aspect. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Silver Pro to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly longer travel distance of the KTT Purple Star for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver Pro for $3.10.
The KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone while typing. This can result in a more neutral and calming typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch provides a high-pitched sound, which produces a sharp and crisp tone with each keystroke. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, the V3 Silver Pro switch may be the better choice for you. It's essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Purple Star switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance. The light 45g bottom-out provides comfort and ease for light typists, making it a suitable choice for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is also easy-to-press but is further characterized as creamy, feathery, polished, and silky. These qualities contribute to a smooth and buttery typing feel, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing the overall typing experience. The V3 Silver Pro switch is specifically designed to offer a highly responsive and low-impact typing experience, particularly beneficial for gamers seeking quick and effortless keystrokes.
In conclusion, the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Purple Star switch provides a low-pitched, mellow sound with a mild and easy-to-press typing feel, catering to light typists seeking comfort and ease. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch delivers a high-pitched, sharp sound with creamy, feathery, polished, and silky qualities, ideal for gamers looking for a smooth and responsive typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound profile and typing feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your typing preferences and use case scenarios. If you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience with a light actuation force, the Purple Star is the way to go. Its 50g bottom-out force and low-pitched sound profile make it ideal for light typists seeking comfort and ease. On the other hand, if you're a gamer looking for enhanced speed and precision, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is the better choice. With its 45g bottom-out force, creamy and feathery feel, and high-pitched sound profile, these switches are tailored for gaming where quick keystrokes and responsiveness are paramount. In the end, your decision should align with your specific typing style and intended usage to optimize your overall typing experience.
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