KTT Rose vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, two distinct choices emerge for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Rose switch offers a unique typing experience with progressive springs that provide a substantial, yet not heavy, feel. Typing on these switches evokes the sound of bassy raindrops and is characterized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is tailored for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound. With a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, these switches are ideal for situations where timing is crucial. Categorized as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, high-pitched, polished, and silky, the V3 Silver Pro switch brings a different set of qualities to the table. 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Rose and the Akko V3 Silver Pro share many similarities, as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. These housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the differences lie in the nylon bottom housing of each switch. The Rose's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon plastic.
Even though both the KTT Rose and the Akko V3 Silver Pro feature polycarbonate top housings that offer similar sound profiles, the difference in their nylon bottom housings can impact the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials mean that the sound and feel of pressing down on a key will vary between the two switches. The bottom housing material has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. This unique combination of materials allows for a diverse typing experience that caters to different preferences.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Rose and the Akko V3 Silver Pro contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound, the differences in their nylon bottom housings create variations in sound depth and fullness. Whether you prefer a rounder sound with the Rose's nylon bottom housing or a deeper sound with the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing, these differences add to the individuality of each switch. Overall, the combination of housing materials in each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences to users. The Rose has no specific actuation force listed, while the V3 Silver Pro has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. On the other hand, the Rose has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, compared to the V3 Silver Pro's bottom out force of 45 grams, which is lighter. This means that the Rose offers a heavier typing experience overall, while the V3 Silver Pro provides a lighter touch. Some users may prefer the Rose for a more substantial typing feel, while others may enjoy the lighter and more effortless keystrokes offered by the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Rose has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers and individuals looking for faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on whether you prefer a longer or shorter travel distance.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing experience with bassy raindrop-like sounds that are mellower compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, providing a different auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired, taking into consideration factors such as keyboard and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience with a gentle and refined feel that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky typing experience that is smooth, buttery, and requires minimal exertion, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The choice between these two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired level of tactility and smoothness.
Overall, both the KTT Rose linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences and use cases. While the Rose switch provides a neutral and polished typing experience with bassy sounds, the V3 Silver Pro switch offers a high-pitched and creamy typing experience with smooth key travel. Ultimately, the best choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance, as both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Rose linear switch or the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force with a unique typing experience that is substantial yet not heavy, the Rose switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for switches with light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and effortless keystrokes, the V3 Silver Pro switch is likely the better option. Consider the sound and feel characteristics as well, such as the bassy raindrop sound of the Rose switch or the easy-to-press and creamy feel of the V3 Silver Pro switch. Ultimately, the decision should align with your typing style, preferences, and intended use case.