Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the TTC Silent Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note the distinct characteristics and advantages that each switch offers. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its budget-friendly quality, producing a unique poppy and clacky sound profile coupled with a smooth tactile sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a gentle tactile bump and a muted sound profile. While the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro excels in lively feedback and audible sensation, the TTC Silent Brown focuses on a quieter and softer 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the TTC Silent Brown, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate lends itself to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency. While the top housings of both switches are identical in material, the sound profile may vary slightly due to other factors such as stem design and spring weight.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Silent Brown are made of nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, the overall typing experience may differ based on the switch's design and construction. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
When considering the implications of having different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch, it is essential to understand how each material contributes to the overall typing experience. While polycarbonate top housings offer a sharp and resonant sound, nylon bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The tactile feedback and acoustics of a switch are influenced by both the top and bottom housings, making it crucial to evaluate the overall design and materials used in the switch construction. By understanding the unique qualities of each housing material, users can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, making them light to the touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, they differ with the V3 Cream Blue Pro requiring 55 grams for a full press while the Silent Brown needs 63.5 grams, making it heavier. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly lighter typing experience, which may be more comfortable for extended use scenarios such as work or gaming. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown provides a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro being lighter and the TTC Silent Brown being heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of typical travel distances for mechanical switches, with the Silent Brown being on the longer side. Gamers might prefer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times, while others may prefer the Silent Brown for its deeper keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 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 Blue Pro tactile switch is known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that offers a lively and audible feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Cream Blue Pro being more lively and the Silent Brown being more subdued.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile sensation with a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is gentle and approachable. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing experience, with the Cream Blue Pro offering a more pronounced tactile bump and the Silent Brown offering a more uniform feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches each have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cream Blue Pro is best suited for those who enjoy a lively and tactile typing experience, while the Silent Brown is ideal for users looking for a smoother and quieter typing sensation. Whether you prefer the poppy sound of the Cream Blue Pro or the muted sound of the Silent Brown, both switches offer quality options within the budget range for mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more lively, audible feedback with a creamy, tactile sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a muted sound profile with a comfortable, rounded tactile bump, the Silent Brown would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize a more distinct sound or a more muted typing experience.
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