Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and TTC Silent Red both offer distinct advantages depending on your preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for those on a budget who still desire high quality, boasting a unique poppy and clacky sound along with exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red is perfect for those seeking a quiet typing experience, making it suitable for office or shared living spaces. While the Cream Black Pro is characterized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the Silent Red is described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Silent Red, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material adds a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to the switches, making them ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding a touch of customization to the switches. While the top housings are the same, the V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Red also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder typing experience.
Despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, the use of different bottom housing materials distinguishes the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro from the TTC Silent Red. The split qualities of the housing materials affect the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch. Typing on the V3 Cream Black Pro will result in a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the TTC Silent Red will offer a slightly different typing experience with its own nylon bottom housing. However, both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housings, creating a sharp and clear sound profile that is ideal for those seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Silent Red will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience desired. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, with the V3 Cream Black Pro providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Red offers a duller and rounder sound profile with the same material. Whether looking for a sharper, crisper sound profile or a softer, more absorbing typing experience, both switches provide distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Silent Red linear switch. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires a 55-gram actuation force and a 65-gram bottom out force, which are considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Silent Red switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier forces of the V3 Cream Black Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Red. Shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers for faster response times, whereas longer travel distances can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience you are looking for. Both switches offer a different feel due to their varying travel distances, so make sure to choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 offers a high-pitched and poppy sound when pressed, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch produces a muted sound profile, significantly reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Silent Reds are perfect for environments where quiet typing is essential, such as shared living spaces or offices. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation that feels like effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys. These switches are noted for their snappy and polished feel, providing a responsive and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is described as buttery and mild, offering a gentle and uniform typing sensation that is approachable to most users. These switches also boast a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a high-pitched and poppy sound profile along with a creamy and bouncy typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be the optimal choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a muted sound profile and a buttery, mild typing experience that is smooth and refined, the TTC Silent Red linear switch would be the ideal option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual needs. Additionally, both switches feature a polished finish, providing enhanced key travel and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether sound or feel is a more significant factor for the newcomer in question.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prefer a high-pitched sound with a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a muted sound profile with a buttery, mild, and polished feel, the TTC Silent Red could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing experience and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what aligns best with your preferences and needs.
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