Akko Rosewood vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Rosewood and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Rosewood and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Akko Rosewood switch is celebrated for its deep, satisfying thocky sound right out of the box, enhanced by a factory-applied thin layer of lubricant that provides a smooth typing experience. This switch is ideal for typists and enthusiasts who appreciate a rich auditory feedback while they type, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more tactile sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are engineered with gamers in mind, providing a light actuation force and shortened travel distance that ensure quick responsiveness in fast-paced scenarios. The V3 Silver Pro glides effortlessly under the fingers and offers a bassy sound, optimizing performance where every millisecond counts. While both switches are categorized as linear and offer smooth keystrokes, they cater to different needs—one for a satisfying typing experience and the other for swift gaming action. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Rosewood and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize distinct top housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Rosewood features a nylon top housing, known for its softer plastic composition, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This characteristic is primarily due to nylon's propensity to absorb sound, which contrasts with the V3 Silver Pro’s polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This fundamental difference in materials leads to a noteworthy variation in auditory experience, with the Rosewood providing a more muted and rounded quality, while the V3 Silver Pro delivers a clear and resonant sound that is particularly beneficial for RGB lighting visibility.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Rosewood and V3 Silver Pro utilize nylon, which reinforces the deeper and fuller sound profile shared by both switches. The nylon material, traditionally favored for its sound-absorbing qualities, maintains consistency in the auditory experience and dampens the sound profile of the switch activation and bottom-out noise. This commonality in bottom housing materials means that, while the V3 Silver Pro's top housing is designed for a sharper response, the two switches will still deliver a similar auditory depth factor at the bottom-out stage due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials of the Akko Rosewood and V3 Silver Pro create a distinct contrast in sound experience. While the Rosewood's nylon top offers a more muted tone, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top allows for a brighter, more resonant sound. However, because both models utilize nylon in the bottom housing, they share a similar foundational acoustic quality during keypresses. This hybrid approach enables users to benefit from the distinct sound attributes of each switch type while enjoying a consistent auditory depth, thus catering to varied preferences depending on whether a deeper or more crisp sound is desired during their typing experience.
Weight
The Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch share the same actuation force of 40 grams, making both switches light and suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. However, when it comes to their bottom out forces, the Rosewood has a slightly heavier feel at 50 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 45 grams. This difference means that while both switches will require the same force to register a keystroke, the Rosewood engages a bit more resistance at the bottom, providing a slightly firmer feedback when fully pressed down. For typists and gamers who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Rosewood may feel more satisfying, whereas those who favor a lighter touch might gravitate towards the V3 Silver Pro due to its lower bottom out force. In summary, both switches offer a similar actuation feel, but the Rosewood is slightly heavier overall due to its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch differ in travel distances, with the Rosewood measuring 4 mm and the V3 Silver Pro at 3.3 mm. The Rosewood's longer travel distance of 4 mm aligns with the traditional standard, offering a deeper feel that some users may find more satisfying for typing or gaming. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro's shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm caters to those who prioritize quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster keystrokes. Ultimately, if you favor a more pronounced and full keystroke experience, the Rosewood is the better option, while the V3 Silver Pro would suit those who appreciate a shallower, more responsive feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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.
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 Rosewood linear switch produces a deep, satisfying thock that is music to the ears of typing enthusiasts. Its factory-applied lubricant contributes to this rich sound profile, creating a distinct warmth that many users find appealing. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches yield a more high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. This can provide a pleasing auditory experience for gamers who prefer a more defined keystroke sound. However, users may find the V3's sound to be less bassy than the Rosewood, leading to a notable difference in acoustic personality.
When it comes to feel, the Rosewood switch offers a smooth and polished typing experience, benefiting from the same factory lubrication that enhances its sound quality. This results in keystrokes that glide effortlessly, though specific descriptors for its tactile engagement are not explicitly outlined. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro boasts an easy-to-press mechanism requiring minimal force for actuation, which makes it particularly comfortable during extended use. Described as creamy, silky, and feathery, this switch capitalizes on a light actuation force and a smooth journey for each key press, providing an exceptional typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue.
Taking both sound and feel into account, each switch offers a distinctive experience suited to different preferences. The Akko Rosewood linear switch is ideal for users who appreciate a rich sound and a smooth typing feel, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch caters to gamers looking for rapid actuation and a lighter touch. Overall, while they differ in auditory profile and tactile feedback, both switches can provide satisfying results depending on what you seek in your typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your primary use case and personal preference in feel and sound. If you appreciate a deeper, thocky sound and a more satisfying auditory experience while typing, the Rosewood’s 50-gram bottom out force provides a light yet substantial resistance that many typists find gratifying. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a balance of comfort and feedback in their key presses, making it a great option for prolonged typing sessions or leisurely gaming. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for every competitive edge, the Akko V3 Silver Pro, with its lighter 45-gram actuation force and shortened travel distance, is designed for rapid keystrokes and quick response times. The creamy, silky feel of the V3 Silver Pro also minimizes finger fatigue, making it a solid choice for long gaming marathons where speed and precision are critical. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize an engaging typing experience with a rich auditory profile or the need for swift, effortless execution during intense gaming sessions.
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