Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Honey. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is renowned for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, offering a unique poppy and clacky sound with smoothness that delights users. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switches provide a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile. While the Cream Black Pro V3 is described as 'creamy', 'high-pitched', 'bouncy', 'snappy', and 'polished', the TTC Honey is categorized as 'subdued', 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'buttery', 'subtle', and 'polished'. Each switch has its unique characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Honey both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is often used in clear housings for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. On the other hand, the Honey features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that provide similar sound profiles, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinctive typing experiences. The V3 Cream Black Pro, with its nylon bottom housing, offers a deeper and fuller sound when typing, creating a more muted and rounder sound. In contrast, the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound, providing a sharper typing experience. These differences in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, appealing to different preferences based on the desired typing experience.
In terms of construction, the qualities of the bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Honey will provide distinct tactile and auditory feedback based on their respective housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing feel and sound profile, with the V3 Cream Black Pro offering a deeper and fuller typing experience with its nylon bottom housing, while the Honey provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, there is a notable difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Honey switch offers a lighter feel, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may find the TTC Honey switch more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may gravitate towards the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, making it slightly shorter than the TTC Honey linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8mm. While both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range compared to traditional switches, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly quicker keystroke compared to the Honey switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may lean towards the Akko switch, while those who prefer a more deliberate keypress may opt for the Honey switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and 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 Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 V3 Cream Black Pro switch offers a high-pitched and crisp sound profile when pressed, making it stand out with its sharp and distinctive noise. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch provides a more subdued and dampened sound, offering a quieter and more subtle typing experience. Depending on your preference, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be more suitable for those who enjoy a sharper sound, while the TTC Honey might be preferred by those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Honey switches share similarities in providing a creamy and smooth typing experience. The creamy sensation is attributed to the application of lubricant in the switches, offering a buttery feel that allows for effortless keystrokes. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish that enhances the overall typing experience by reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. While the V3 Cream Black Pro also offers a bouncy and snappy feel, the TTC Honey boasts a frictionless and subtle typing experience, catering to individuals who prefer different levels of tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Honey switches excel in providing a creamy and smooth typing experience with their polished finishes. While the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a high-pitched sound profile and bouncy feel, the TTC Honey provides a subdued sound and subtle typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired. Both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users can enjoy similar results regardless of their selection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when selecting between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-pitched, poppy sound with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, then the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more subdued, deep sound with a creamy, frictionless typing feel, then the TTC Honey switch would be the ideal fit for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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