Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Honey both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is perfect for budget-conscious enthusiasts looking for a satisfying auditory experience with its poppy, clacky sound and smooth tactile feel. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch boasts a smooth and creamy feel with a deep and pleasant sound profile. While the Akko switch is described as 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the TTC Honey is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. 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
42g
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
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 Yellow Pro and the TTC Honey, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, where the two differ is in the bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Honey utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which adds to the clear and resonant sound profile.
The use of different bottom housing materials between the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Honey leads to distinct typing experiences. With the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, typists can expect a softer and more absorbent typing feel, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey contributes to a sharper and more resonant typing experience. This difference in bottom housing materials showcases how the choice of materials can impact the overall typing feel and sound of a switch.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Honey share polycarbonate as their top housing material, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The Nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a deeper sound profile and softer typing feel, while the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and more resonant sound. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience, users can better choose a switch that suits their preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that the Honey switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium in terms of weight. In contrast, the Honey switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. The lighter actuation force of the Honey switch may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in the amount of distance each switch travels. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Honey has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Honey linear switch will provide a slightly deeper key press compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Gamers who prefer a faster response time may opt for the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may favor the Honey linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
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 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 Yellow Pro linear switch is best known for its poppy and clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a deep and pleasant sound profile, giving a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed, ideal for those looking for a more subtle sound signature. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Cream Yellow Pro being more lively and the Honey being more mellow.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch is characterized as creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished, providing a buttery and uniform typing sensation. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and effortless typing experience, with the Cream Yellow Pro offering a more responsive and lively feel, while the Honey gives a silky and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch each have their unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cream Yellow Pro offers a poppy and clacky sound with a creamy tactile feel, the Honey provides a deep and pleasant sound profile with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prefer a more vibrant or subdued sound and a more responsive or mellow feel. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a poppy, clacky sound with a creamy tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is a solid choice, especially for budget-conscious enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
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