Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to experiencing the satisfying feel of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are a fantastic option for budget-conscious users who crave a high-quality performance, offering a delightful combination of a poppy, clacky sound and exceptional smoothness during use. They are characterized by their creamy texture and high-pitched, snappy responses, making them ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy and polished keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches present a softer typing experience with their notably light actuation force and deep, rounded sound profile. This feather-light feel caters to typists who seek a gentle and effortless touch while typing, perfect for long hours at the keyboard without fatigue. While both switches offer distinct advantages—whether it's the vibrant acoustic feedback of the Akko or the smooth, understated elegance of the Yunhai—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
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
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Yunhai switches, notable distinctions surface in their top housing choices. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the sharpness and clarity of sound, yielding a higher-pitched profile that resonates well, particularly when RGB lighting is involved. In contrast, the Yunhai employs a nylon top housing that offers a deeper, rounder sound profile due to its softer material characteristics. This results in a more subdued auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer a warmer acoustic atmosphere when typing. The choice of polycarbonate in the V3 directs a crisper auditory feedback, while the nylon used by the Yunhai contributes a mellower sound characteristic.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a shared auditory foundation between the two models. The nylon's inherent properties absorb sound, producing a fuller and deeper bottom-out feel regardless of the differing top housing materials. This commonality allows for both switches to produce a similar experience in terms of bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, effectively blending the qualities of a softer, absorbing material across both models. As such, when engaged, both switches create a cohesive typing experience, particularly in terms of the overall sensation felt when depressing keys.
The overall auditory experience of the V3 Cream Black Pro and the TTC Yunhai can be seen as a juxtaposition of highs and lows. While the V3 brings a bright and resonant sound profile through its polycarbonate upper housing, the Yunhai envelops the user with a rich fullness that emerges from its nylon top. However, with both switches anchored by their nylon bottom housings, users can anticipate a consistent deeper sound experience once the keys are actuated. Ultimately, the selection between these two switches boils down to personal preference regarding sound profile and tactile feedback, allowing enthusiasts to explore varied auditory landscapes within their typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch differ significantly in both actuation and bottom-out forces, catering to different preferences among users. The V3 Cream Black Pro features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom-out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option that appeals to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch boasts a notably lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, ideal for users who prefer a softer touch, especially during prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. As a result, the Akko switch is heavier while the TTC option is lighter, suggesting that those who are looking for a lighter typing experience should lean towards the Yunhai, while those seeking a firmer response might find the V3 Cream Black Pro more to their liking. Overall, the choice between them ultimately hinges on personal preference for the feel of each switch during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we find that they differ in their specifications. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option of the two, while the Yunhai has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which provides a more substantial depth. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro could be the better choice, as its shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, appealing particularly to gamers who prefer speedy feedback. Conversely, those who enjoy a fuller keystroke may prefer the TTC Yunhai, as its longer travel distance gives a more pronounced feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference: for a rapid response, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal, while for a more traditional and pronounced keystroke, the TTC Yunhai stands out.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 switches emit a distinctively high-pitched pop that resonates well in a mechanical keyboard setting. Their unique clacky sound provides an engaging auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches are characterized by a deeper and rounder sound profile, which contrasts with the sharper tones of the Cream Black Pro. The deeper sound can create a more subdued acoustic environment, potentially appealing to users who prefer a soft yet rich auditory experience during typing. Overall, while both switches provide distinctive sounds that cater to different preferences, the choice largely depends on whether you prefer a brighter pop or a deeper tone.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches deliver an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to their polished finish and potentially factory-applied lubricant. This buttery sensation allows for effortless gliding of fingers across the keys, making each keystroke feel seamless. Additionally, they offer a bouncy and snappy feedback, which enhances responsiveness and adds a lively dynamic to typing sessions. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches present a feathery feel that requires minimal force for actuation, significantly reducing finger fatigue. This light actuation makes them particularly comfortable for long typing durations but may lack the engaging feedback found in the Cream Black Pro’s bounciness and snappiness. Thus, users looking for a light touch will find the Yunhai switches appealing, while those who enjoy a tactile and responsive experience may lean toward the Cream Black Pro.
In summary, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and TTC Yunhai switches present unique qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cream Black Pro offers a high-pitched, lively sound paired with a smooth and responsive typing experience that many users appreciate. Conversely, the Yunhai provides a deeper acoustic profile and a remarkably light actuation force for those seeking a more effortless typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two comes down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback, ensuring that no matter which one you choose, you're likely to enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, your personal typing style and preferences should guide your decision. If you appreciate a medium-heavy actuation force (65 grams) combined with a tactile experience characterized by a creamy, polished feel and a high-pitched, clacky sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro is likely your best option. This switch is particularly well-suited for individuals who enjoy a responsive typing experience that allows for expressive sound and satisfying feedback—perfect for both typing enthusiasts and casual users who relish the auditory aspects of their keyboard. On the other hand, if you tend to favor a lighter keystroke (50 grams) and prefer a gentle, effortless feel during extended typing sessions, the TTC Yunhai would be your go-to choice. With its feathery touch and deep, rounded sound profile, this switch is ideal for those looking for minimal finger fatigue and a smooth, comfortable typing experience, especially for long durations at work or school. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a more engaging sound and tactile response, or a soft, relaxed feel for prolonged use.
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