Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and TTC Honey mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro boasts a tactile sensation with a poppy and clacky sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy audible feedback and a smooth typing experience on a budget, the TTC Honey provides a linear switch with a smooth and creamy feel, perfect for users seeking a more subdued and buttery typing experience with a deep sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience; 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the TTC Honey, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. However, when it comes to their bottom housings, the V3 Cream Blue Pro opts for nylon while the Honey sticks with polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey maintains a sharper and clearer sound profile.
Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Honey offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, which may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a clear and resonant sound, catering to users who prefer a sharper and more defined typing sound. This variation in sound profiles demonstrates how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the TTC Honey comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, the differing bottom housing materials offer unique characteristics that may appeal to different users. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch to the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Honey's 42 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro also requires more pressure at 55 grams, whereas the Honey bottoms out at 50 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, but the Honey is slightly lighter than the V3 Cream Blue Pro. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Honey would be the better choice, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the TTC Honey linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer this switch for its speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable and less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred for optimal typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is known for its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a lively and audible feedback that pairs well with its creamy tactile sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch is described as producing a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is often described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium tactile experience with a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. The keys of this switch offer a spring-like sensation, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Conversely, the TTC Honey switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. The typing sensation is effortless and uniform with these switches.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch provides a unique combination of a poppy and clacky sound profile along with a creamy tactile sensation that caters to users who appreciate an audible feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance, creating a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer high-quality performance within their respective characteristics, providing a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a lively, audible feedback paired with a creamy, tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience accompanied by a deep and pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch would be your best bet. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, so consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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