Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Silent Brown offer distinct experiences for users. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch that is known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, as well as its smoothness. It is a great choice for budget-minded individuals looking for high-quality switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown is a tactile switch that provides a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile. While the Cream Black Pro is categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', the Silent Brown is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
63.5g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Silent Brown lies in their housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Silent Brown also features a polycarbonate top housing with similar sound characteristics. Both switches are ideal for those who prefer a more defined sound when typing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Silent Brown use nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite having different top housings, both switches offer a similar typing experience when it comes to the bottom housing material. Typing on either switch will elicit a satisfyingly deep sound that appeals to those looking for a quieter typing experience.
While the housing materials differ between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Silent Brown, the overall typing experience is likely to be quite similar. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, with the polycarbonate top housing providing a sharper sound and the nylon bottom housing offering a deeper sound. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the V3 Cream Black Pro or a rounder sound with the Silent Brown, both switches cater to different preferences while delivering a quality typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, while the Silent Brown needs 45 grams to actuate and 63.5 grams to bottom out. This makes the Silent Brown the lighter option in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Brown switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue setting in. However, some users may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the V3 Cream Black Pro for a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In comparison, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch provides a bit more depth in its travel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, so choosing between them will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 provides a high-pitched and poppy sound that resonates with each key press. This sharp and crisp sound profile adds a unique auditory experience to your typing, ideal for those who prefer a more distinctive sound. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted and softer sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience that is perfect for office or shared spaces where noise levels need to be minimized.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing sensation, thanks to its smooth and buttery key presses that feel like gliding across the keys with ease. The added bounce in the keys gives a lively and spring-like feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Silent Brown switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke that is gentle and approachable to most users. The polished finish of both switches provides reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek and refined typing experience.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches deliver a high level of quality and performance in their respective categories. Whether you prefer a high-pitched and poppy sound with a creamy and bouncy feel, or a muted and softer sound with a buttery and mild typing experience, you can expect excellent performance and comfort from either switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it's important to consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a high-pitched and poppy sound with a smooth and bouncy typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted and buttery sound with a gentle and polished typing sensation, the TTC Silent Brown could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prioritize and what sound profile appeals to you the most. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so take your time to determine which one aligns best with your needs.
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