Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, to the KTT Wine Red, also a linear switch, it is important to note their individual strengths. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a superb choice for budget-minded individuals looking for high-quality mechanical keyboard switches. With a unique poppy and clacky sound, these switches offer a smooth typing experience that is both bouncy and snappy. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches provide a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile that is satisfying to type on. While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is categorized as ['Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished'], the KTT Wine Red is categorized as ['Bassy', 'Low-pitched']. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits. 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
55g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Wine Red, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This common choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing is paired with a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, absorbing more sound than harder plastics.
On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile, similar to its top housing. The combination of polycarbonate top and bottom housing in the Wine Red results in a consistent sound experience when typing on the switches. While the V3 Cream Black Pro splits the qualities of its housing materials between the top and bottom, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the KTT Wine Red feature polycarbonate as their top housing material, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout. Overall, the choice of housing materials in these switches plays a significant role in the sound and feel experienced by users, with each material contributing unique characteristics to the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that there is a difference in weight between the two. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Wine Red has a lighter actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Wine Red offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a different feel to suit individual preferences, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being heavier and the Wine Red being lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on one's personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force in a linear switch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter distance of 3.3 mm, while the Wine Red has a longer distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly quicker response time with its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster input. On the other hand, the Wine Red provides a more substantial key press feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound profile, which can be ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch produces a deep, rich, and bassy sound that provides a sense of depth and luxury when typing. If you enjoy a sound with more bass tones and richness, the Wine Red switch may be the better choice for you.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is known for its creamy and smooth typing experience, reminiscent of gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The switch offers a silky sensation that allows for comfortable and seamless typing. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red switch's feel is not specified in the provided information. However, if it offers a pillowy light type feel as mentioned, it may provide a soft and cushioned typing experience that caters to those who prefer a gentle touch when typing.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch excels in high-pitched sound and creamy feel, making it a great option for individuals who value sharp sound feedback and smooth key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a deep, rich sound and potentially a pillowy light type feel, catering to those who prefer a more bassy sound profile and a softer typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, although they offer different subjective qualities. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a deep, rich, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile with a pillowy light type feel, the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and budget constraints.
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