Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Red 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 Red mechanical keyboard switches, you're presented with two excellent options that cater to different preferences and needs. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, offering a unique poppy and clacky sound alongside smoothness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, accompanied by a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being overbearing. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Red switches share many similarities, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches boast a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, where the switches differ is in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Gold Red also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience.
Despite their similarities in top housing material, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and TTC Gold Red switches vary in their bottom housing composition, leading to slightly different typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Gold Red's nylon bottom housing also provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, albeit with its own distinctive characteristics. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights how even small variations can impact the overall typing feel and sound of a switch.
In terms of construction, the split between top and bottom housing materials in the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and TTC Gold Red switches means that each component contributes unique qualities to the typing experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This division allows for a more nuanced and dynamic typing experience, as the distinct properties of each housing material work together to create a harmonious overall sound profile. Ultimately, whether choosing the V3 Cream Black Pro or the Gold Red, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with subtle differences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the TTC Gold Red linear switch's 43 grams, making the Gold Red lighter in this category. The bottom out force of the V3 Cream Black Pro is also heavier at 65 grams compared to the Gold Red's 50 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience with the Cream Black Pro. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Gold Red more appealing for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a firmer push may gravitate towards the V3 Cream Black Pro for a more impactful typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of force, so ultimately the choice depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Gold Red's 4 mm travel distance. The difference of 0.7 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Gold Red. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, catering to the preferences of different users.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is noted for its high-pitched and crisp sound profile, providing a sharp and distinct noise when pressed. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red linear switch has a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone due to its low-pitched characteristic. The V3 Cream Black Pro gives a poppy and clacky sound, while the Gold Red offers a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being too overpowering. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that will cater to different preferences, whether one prefers a sharper sound or a deeper thud.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its creamy and bouncy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation while also offering a spring-like feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switch is described as mild and silky, offering a gentle and exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. The Cream Black Pro offers a bouncy and snappy feel, while the Gold Red provides a more subtle and gentle typing experience, catering to individuals who prefer a softer touch when typing.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Cream Black Pro has a high-pitched and creamy sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Gold Red features a thocky sound and a silky typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches are excellent choices for those seeking high-quality linear switches that deliver smooth and satisfying typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, consider your preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth typing experience, then the V3 Cream Black Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, and a snappy sound profile, then the Gold Red linear switch would be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience and sound profile you find most appealing.
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