Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Gold Red, both of which are linear switches. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is favored by budget-conscious enthusiasts for its poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, providing a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being overpowering. While both switches have their own unique characteristics, such as the Akko V3 being easy-to-press and bouncy while the TTC Gold Red is thocky and silky, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the best switch for you. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Gold Red, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings which offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro boasts a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The Gold Red also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile.
While both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Gold Red utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, they differ in their bottom housings. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gold Red similarly utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect. This allows for a split in the qualities brought by each housing material, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The top housing, on the other hand, plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a balance of different housing materials to create a unique sound experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Gold Red showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving specific sound profiles in mechanical switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and resonant sound, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gold Red's nylon bottom housing offers a similar effect. This differentiation allows for a split in qualities throughout the switch, with the bottom and top housings each playing a distinct role in the overall sound experience. Ultimately, whether opting for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the Gold Red, users can expect a high-quality sound profile tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Gold Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires 60 grams, while the Gold Red only needs 50 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Gold Red. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Red would be the better option, as it has lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Red has a longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow Pro. The Gold Red's 4 mm travel distance falls more into the traditional range, while the Cream Yellow Pro's 3.3 mm falls on the shorter end. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Cream Yellow Pro due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gold Red for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow Pro for $2.00.
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 Yellow Pro offers a poppy, clacky sound that adds a vibrant auditory experience to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switches produce a thocky, low-pitched sound that is more subdued and rich. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various preferences and environments. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a creamy tactile feel that enhances the typing experience. The light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and offers a responsive typing feel. In comparison, the TTC Gold Red switches offer a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience that is smooth and gentle on the fingers. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch caters to those looking for a more dynamic typing experience with a poppy sound and a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch appeals to users seeking a buttery smooth typing experience with a rich, thocky sound profile. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. Whether you opt for the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the TTC Gold Red, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with similar results in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a slightly heavier typing experience with a poppy sound and creamy tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a buttery smooth feel and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red may be more to your liking. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gold Red comes down to your individual typing style and sound preferences.
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