Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the TTC Iron mechanical keyboard switches, you have two distinct options to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a tactile experience with a delightful poppy and clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively feedback paired with a smooth, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Iron provides a linear experience with a pronounced clacky sound signature, offering swift and fatigue-free typing sessions with buttery smooth travel. While the Cream Blue Pro is more bouncy and accented, the Iron is easy-to-press and neutral. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the TTC Iron differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. In contrast, the Iron utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. However, both switches share a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a similar pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side. Although the top housing materials vary between the two switches, the POM bottom housing creates a consistent sound experience.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers the advantage of translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. The clear housing of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting displays that enhance the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the Iron's POM top housing prioritizes sound quality over aesthetics, resulting in a deeper and more subdued sound profile. While both top housing materials have their own unique characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and visual appeal.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that each material brings its own qualities to the switch. The bottom housing material, whether it be nylon for the V3 Cream Blue Pro or POM for the Iron, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing material, such as polycarbonate or POM, affects the sound when releasing a key. By combining different housing materials in a switch, manufacturers can create a balanced typing experience that appeals to a variety of preferences in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, it is clear that the Iron switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, making it medium-light in comparison to the Iron switch, which only needs 41 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. The difference in weight between the two switches can impact typing and gaming experiences. Some users may prefer the lighter feel of the Iron switch for extended periods of typing or gaming, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation of the V3 Cream Blue Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the TTC Iron linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Blue Pro will provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance compared to the Iron switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, while those who prefer a more significant key travel depth may lean towards the TTC Iron switch. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which is becoming more popular in modern keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is characterized by its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that is especially appealing for users who enjoy a tactile sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Iron switch offers a pronounced clacky sound signature that adds a satisfying element to typing, making it a popular choice for those who seek precision and pleasure in each keystroke. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is described as having a bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, providing a medium tactile experience that is smooth and refined, the Iron switch is known for its easy-to-press and mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required. Overall, both switches excel in sound quality, with the Cream Blue Pro being more tactile and lively, while the Iron switch focuses on providing a satisfying typing experience with swift actuation and smooth travel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches deliver excellent performance in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a poppy and clacky sound profile paired with a creamy tactile sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a pronounced clacky sound signature and light actuation force for swift typing sessions, the TTC Iron linear switch could be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
