Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options for enthusiasts are the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Yunhai, both linear switches that cater to different preferences. The Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 is celebrated for its budget-friendly price while delivering a delightful auditory experience—characterized by a poppy, clacky sound and a creamy tactile feel. This switch embodies qualities like being easy to press, feathery, and snappy, appealing to those who enjoy a vibrant typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches are distinguished by their deep, rounded sound profile and an incredibly light actuation force, providing a gentle and effortless typing experience that typists often seek. While the Akko switch emphasizes a more pronounced auditory and tactile feedback, the Yunhai focuses on a smoother and lighter touch. 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
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Yunhai utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which directly influences the sound profiles they produce. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This material generates a sharper and crisper sound signature, making it ideal for users who prefer a bright auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Yunhai sports a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer composition. The nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that tends to be rounder. While both materials serve the practical purpose of housing switches, they engage in this operation in markedly different ways, leading to distinct auditory experiences for the user.
Both switches have nylon bottom housings, which contributes to a common auditory baseline between them. The nylon used in the bottom housing for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Yunhai is effective in creating a dampened, round sound profile during key presses. Since both switches employ nylon in this category, users can expect a similar tonal quality from the bottom out. This shared characteristic can aid in producing a cohesive sound experience that blends well with the qualities of the individual top housings. While the depth of sound is more pronounced due to the nylon's inherent absorption properties, the overall tactile feel will also be similar since both bottom housings contribute to the key actuation feel and feedback.
In essence, the differences in the top housing materials create a contrast in the sound profiles between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the TTC Yunhai, but the marriage of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a shared experience in tactile feedback. The polycarbonate top of the Akko will lead to a brighter sound when releasing keys, while the nylon of the Yunhai provides a more muted response. Ultimately, users can expect a blend of auditory feedback that incorporates both the sharper sounds from the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's top housing and the deeper tones from the Yunhai's nylon structure. Thus, despite their differences, the combination of top and bottom housing materials allows for a range of experiences that enhance the versatility of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch with the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we can observe distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium switch. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch overall. This means that users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions might find the Yunhai more suitable, while those who enjoy a stronger push sensation for a substantial typing experience could favor the Akko switch. Additionally, the considerable difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches indicates that they will deliver distinct tactile responses: the V3 Cream Yellow Pro will feel firmer, whereas the Yunhai will provide a softer touch. Overall, users’ preferences regarding weight and response will dictate which switch is ideal for their specific needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which provides a deeper keypress experience. For those who favor responsiveness and quicker actions, the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow Pro may be more appealing, especially for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Yunhai switch may feel more substantial and satisfying for users who prefer a deeper keypress. Both switches, while differing in travel distances, cater to distinct preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 and clacky auditory experience that enhances the vibrant feel of typing. This lively sound signature is ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback during use. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai switches provide a deep, rounded sound profile that lends a soothing quality to key presses. This softer sound makes them suitable for typists who prefer a quieter environment without sacrificing the experience of tactile feedback. While both switches can create an enjoyable auditory presence, the key differentiation lies in the V3's brighter character versus the Yunhai's more subdued tone.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro excels with its easy-to-press mechanism, requiring minimal force for activation. This feature, coupled with a feathery and bouncy sensation, makes typing an effort-free experience, significantly reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. Many users also appreciate the snappy response, which enhances the overall engagement during typing. The TTC Yunhai switches, while not explicitly described in this context, are known for their incredibly light actuation force, which suggests they would also provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, potentially mirroring the effortless nature of the Cream Yellow Pro.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and TTC Yunhai linear switches offer unique yet satisfying experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The V3 shines with its energetic sound and responsive, bouncy feel, making it great for lively typists or gamers. Meanwhile, the Yunhai’s deep sound combined with its lightweight actuation may be ideal for those seeking a gentle yet immersive typing experience. Ultimately, either switch would provide a delightful quality, though the decision may come down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you appreciate a medium resistance switch that provides a delightful auditory feedback with a rich, clacky sound, then the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be your go-to option. It’s particularly suitable for budget-conscious enthusiasts who want a more dynamic typing experience characterized by a poppy sound and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more effortless typing feel with a lighter actuation force, the Yunhai switch might be the better choice for you. Its unique deep, rounded sound profile coupled with its easy-to-press design makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions, whether for gaming, work, or casual use. Ultimately, the choice hinges on whether you prioritize a more pronounced feedback and sound or a gentle, low-impact typing experience.
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