Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that they each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko Cream Black Pro V3 switches are ideal for those on a budget seeking top-notch quality. Known for their poppy and clacky sound, paired with remarkable smoothness, they provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch showcases versatility, offering a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for any environment. While the Cream Black Pro V3 is characterized by its 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', and 'Bouncy' feel, the Gold Red Pro stands out with its 'Polished', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched' traits. Both switches have their own strengths and appeals, making them suitable for different preferences and usage scenarios. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro, we see that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. However, the switches differ when it comes to their nylon bottom housings. The V3 Cream Black Pro uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro offer slightly different typing experiences due to their distinct bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing a more rounded typing feel. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs sound to produce a duller and rounder sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights how the tactile experience of typing can vary even within switches that appear similar on the surface.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. Both switches offer a sharp, high-pitched sound profile thanks to their polycarbonate top housings. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the Gold Red Pro offers a slightly duller and rounder sound. By considering the impact of both top and bottom housing materials on sound and feel, users can select the switch that best suits their preferences for typing performance.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Gold Red Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams. The bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown. The V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, which may appeal to users who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro would be more suitable for those who prefer lighter switches for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, both switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Akko switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the TTC switch. The difference may not be significant, but it can affect the typing or gaming experience based on personal preference. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Akko switch, while those who prefer a more profound keypress may opt for the TTC switch. Overall, both switches provide a balance between a traditional and shallow travel distance, offering users a comfortable typing experience.
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 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched and poppy sound, providing a sharp and crisp audio feedback when pressed. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, neither too loud nor too quiet, making it adaptable for various environments without being overpowering. If you prefer a more pronounced and vibrant sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro may be the way to go, whereas if you prefer a more balanced and subtle sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro is the suitable choice.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as creamy and bouncy, offering a smooth and lively typing experience with a buttery sensation and spring-like feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch provides a polished and silky feel, with a refined finish and exceptionally smooth keystrokes. Both switches prioritize smoothness and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience with their respective characteristics. Whether you prefer a more bouncy and energetic feel or a polished and refined typing sensation, both switches deliver on providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its high-pitched and poppy sound combined with a creamy and bouncy feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro provides a more neutral sound profile with a polished and silky typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer excellent performance and versatility for a wide range of typing tasks. Whether you choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro or the TTC Gold Red Pro, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with smooth and responsive feedback.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering which switch to choose between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear, it's important to evaluate your preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched sound with a creamy, bouncy, and snappy feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and enjoy a thocky, low-pitched sound with a polished, silky, mild, and subtle feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics that align with your typing style and usage needs.
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