TTC Brother vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, you are faced with two unique options that cater to different preferences. The Brother clicky switch, praised for its lightweight actuation and satisfyingly crunchy sound, is a top choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with clear feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound along with a silky smooth typing experience. While the Brother switch is categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Easy-to-press', the V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as 'Bouncy' and 'Chirpy'. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Brother incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing.
The use of nylon in the Brother's bottom housing creates a different typing experience compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This contrasts with the sharper and more resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro. The choice of bottom housing material significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch, influencing the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, while both switches offer similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials sets them apart. The TTC Brother with its nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a different typing experience compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Brother switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams compared to the Crystal Pro's 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal Pro is heavier at 60 grams, while the Brother's bottom out force is unspecified. This means that while the Brother switch may provide a lighter touch for typing, the Crystal Pro offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches still provide a satisfying typing experience, but users looking for a lighter feel may lean towards the Brother switch, while those who prefer a firmer touch may opt for the Crystal Pro switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch is 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Brother switch. The difference may not be significant, but it could potentially impact the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and how the user values the travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 Crystal 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 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, a characteristic favored by clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch produces a chirpy sound with a unique squeak, setting it apart from other switches. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Brother switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, leading to a comfortable and effortless typing experience. Additionally, its stepped feel provides a subtle tactile feedback during key presses. In comparison, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and spring-like sensation, giving keys a lively rebound when pressed. Furthermore, its polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel.
Taking all the information into consideration, it's clear that the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother switch excels in providing a crisp and tactile experience with its lightweight nature and articulate tactile bump, the V3 Crystal Pro switch stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature and a bouncy, polished feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, both switches are sure to provide satisfactory results in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering which switch to choose between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who enjoys a light, tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound and articulate feedback, then the TTC Brother clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a bright chirpy sound, then the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual typing needs.
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