TTC Brother vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch present themselves as compelling options. The Brother stands out with its lightweight actuation of 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both easy-to-press and satisfyingly crunchy for fans of clicky switches. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro impresses with its budget-friendly yet high-quality feel, offering a poppy and clacky sound profile alongside a smooth and creamy tactile sensation. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, making them suitable for 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness and translucency, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the Brother's bottom housing is made of nylon, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, the V3 Cream Blue Pro also features nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offer a unique typing experience with a mix of polycarbonate and nylon. The Brother's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile when typing, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, producing a rounder sound. However, the similarities in their top housing material, polycarbonate, means that users can expect a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile when using either of these switches. Ultimately, the combination of materials used in each switch results in a distinct typing experience for users to enjoy.
In terms of construction, the choice of housing materials in both the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the use of polycarbonate for the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile, the inclusion of nylon for the bottom housing enhances the depth and texture of the typing experience. This combination allows for a balanced and unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with the Brother's polycarbonate top housing or a fuller sound profile with the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a versatile and customizable typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch with a higher actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Brother switch may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Brother switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth in their keypress may opt for the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for either a shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that resonates with clear, crisp precision, akin to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch provides users with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is smooth and lively. Both switches cater to those who appreciate audible feedback, albeit with different characteristics that may appeal to individual preferences.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force leads to an effortless and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium amount of tactility with a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth key travel. These qualities contribute to a typing feel that is responsive and dynamic, perfect for those who seek a balance between tactility and smoothness.
Considering the available information, it is evident that both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Brother excels in providing a crunchy sound and an easy-to-press experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out with its poppy and clacky sound profile, as well as a combination of accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished tactile sensations. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when looking to choose between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lightweight switch with a breezy actuation and a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a budget-friendly option with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile paired with a smooth tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your preference for a specific sound and feel will play a significant role in determining which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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