TTC Brother vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience. The Brother stands out for its lightweight and breezy actuation of 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both satisfying and effortless. Its crunchy sound signature and well-balanced tactile bump make it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a pronounced tactile bump for a delightful typing experience. While both switches have their own unique qualities, such as the Brother's easy-to-press nature and the V3's bouncy and polished feel, it ultimately comes down to what type of typing experience you prefer. 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
1.90 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
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
Housing materials
While both the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro use polycarbonate for their top housings, they each offer a unique sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, since both switches utilize the same material for their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles from both the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro feature nylon housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the top housing primarily affects the sound when a key is released, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play when a key is pressed down. Therefore, users can expect a deeper and more substantial typing experience with both switches due to their nylon bottom housings.
While the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro differ between the top and bottom housings, they both offer unique benefits to the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing feel. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, making typing on these switches more satisfying for users who appreciate a softer sound profile. Ultimately, both switches combine these materials to create a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for users with different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Brother switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams, while the Akko switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Brother switch is unknown, while the Akko switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it heavier in comparison. This means that the Brother switch may provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer sessions, while the Akko switch offers a more substantial typing feel due to its higher forces. In the end, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is the longer of the two. The shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm on the TTC Brother switch may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, particularly gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of 3.8 mm on the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Overall, both switches offer unique travel distances that cater to different preferences, but those seeking a shorter travel distance may find the TTC Brother switch more suitable, while those who prefer a longer travel distance may opt for the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch.
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 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch is revered for its crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. This auditory experience is sure to please enthusiasts who appreciate the satisfying click of a mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch's sound profile is not explicitly described, but it is likely to offer a higher-pitched tone that adds a unique touch to typing sessions. Depending on personal preference and setup, both switches can provide an enjoyable auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, requiring only a light actuation force of 37g for a breezy typing experience. The stepped feel of this switch adds a dimension of tactility without being overwhelming, striking a good balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the contrary, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers an accented tactile bump that is not overly pronounced, providing a satisfying amount of feedback without causing fatigue during extended use. The bouncy, snappy, and polished qualities of the Lavender Purple Pro switch further contribute to a smooth and lively typing feel that keyboard enthusiasts appreciate.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in delivering a crunchy sound and an easy-to-press feel, making it a favorite among clicky switch users. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers a unique sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, along with additional features like bounciness, snappiness, and polished finish. Both switches have their strengths and are likely to provide a pleasant typing experience depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction whether they opt for the Brother clicky switch or the Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a lightweight actuation force, crisp audible feedback, and a subtle tactile bump, the Brother switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a higher-pitched sound profile, and a mix of different tactile characteristics such as being accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be more suited to your typing style. Remember to test out both switches if possible to truly determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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