Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Brown Pro mechanical keyboard switches, the decision hinges on the type of typing experience you prefer. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro offers a linear switch option that is perfect for those who enjoy a smooth and consistent keystroke, accompanied by a unique poppy and clacky sound. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro provides a tactile switch that delivers a subtle and nuanced feedback with a gentle tactile bump, allowing for a more immersive typing experience with minimal distraction. Each switch has its own unique set of characteristics, bringing something different to the table. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gold Brown Pro differ in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. Conversely, the Gold Brown Pro also uses nylon for its bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities as the V3 Cream Black Pro.
While both switches share the same top housing material of polycarbonate, their bottom housing materials differ slightly. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, accentuating the typing experience with its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing also provides a similar typing experience with its ability to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. Overall, both switches offer a unique sound profile due to their choice of housing materials, with the V3 Cream Black Pro emphasizing a stiffer top housing for a crisper sound, while both switches focus on a softer bottom housing for a fuller typing experience.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Brown Pro play a significant role in determining the sound profile and tactile experience of each switch. The utilization of polycarbonate for the top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound, especially when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound during key presses. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials, showcasing the importance of choosing the right materials for optimal sound and feel. Overall, while there are slight differences in their bottom housing materials, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, the main difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a higher actuation and bottom out force at 55 grams and 65 grams respectively, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but no information is available regarding its bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch that has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro provides a deeper press due to its longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable and less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the desired feel while typing or gaming.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 stands out with its high-pitched and poppy sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback that is sure to satisfy those who prefer a more vibrant sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, perfect for users who appreciate a more subtle and quiet typing experience. While the Cream Black Pro excels in producing a more noticeable and pronounced sound, the Gold Brown Pro delivers a quieter and more understated auditory response, catering to different preferences based on sound preference.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience, with the Cream Black Pro being described as creamy and bouncy, providing a buttery and lively sensation with each key press. Similarly, the Gold Brown Pro is also polished and silky, offering a refined and exceptionally smooth feel that minimizes resistance and enhances typing comfort. The Cream Black Pro may provide a bouncier and snappier typing experience, while the Gold Brown Pro offers a more subtle and gentle resistance, ensuring a light and comfortable typing feel for prolonged use. Both switches excel in providing a polished and smooth typing experience, with slight variations in the overall tactile feedback they offer.
Ultimately, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Black Pro excels in producing a high-pitched and poppy sound, combined with a creamy and bouncy typing feel that is sure to delight users seeking a more lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro provides a thocky, low-pitched sound with a polished and silky typing feel, perfect for those who value a more subtle and refined tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional quality and performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound, smooth keystrokes, and a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactility, subdued sound profile, and a switch that allows you to stay focused with minimal distraction, then the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the ideal choice. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of sound, feel, and typing feedback, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Remember, the best switch for you is the one that enhances your typing experience and suits your preferences.
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