Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences in feel and sound can greatly influence your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is a tactile switch famed for its pronounced tactile bump and bass-heavy acoustic profile, making it an ideal choice for users who enjoy a responsive feedback while typing and a more audible sound. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red is a linear switch that captivates not only with its smooth, weighty feel but also its stunning light diffuser, making it a fantastic option for those looking to enhance the aesthetics of their RGB keyboard. While the Creamy Purple Pro gears itself towards typists who appreciate tactile sensations and a pronounced sound, the Flame Red appeals to minimalists seeking a smoother typing experience with an impressive visual display. 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
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Flame Red switches significantly influence their auditory profiles and tactile experiences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer properties that contribute to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This clarity makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances the lighting effects. In contrast, the TTC Flame Red features a nylon top housing, a material that inherently provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a more subdued auditory response. The differing materials in the top housings result in contrasting sound experiences when typing; while the V3 delivers crisp and bright audio feedback, the Flame Red offers a warmer and rounder tone.
Both switches, however, share a common ground in their bottom housing, as they both utilize nylon. This presents a point of similarity between the two models. The nylon bottom housing contributes equally to the overall sound profile, promoting a deeper aural quality that resonates well with users who prefer a fuller typing experience. Since nylon absorbs sound, the bottom-out sound produced during keystrokes on both switches will exhibit a duller and rounder character. This consistency in the bottom housing means that regardless of the differing materials in the top housings, the user will perceive a similar sound depth when bottoming out with either switch.
In essence, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and TTC Flame Red switches showcase different top housing materials—with polycarbonate providing brightness and nylon delivering depth—their nylon bottom housings unite them in sound characteristics. Each switch offers a unique typing experience influenced by its top housing's properties, yet both share the benefit of nylon's acoustic dampening effects, ensuring that both models offer a satisfying auditory response during use. Whether opting for the sharper notes of the V3 or the warmer tones of the Flame Red, users can appreciate how these design choices inform their keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom-out forces come into play. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it a preferable option for those who favor a softer touch that allows for extended typing sessions or gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the TTC Flame Red has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 54 grams, which translates to a more substantial feel, suitable for users who appreciate a firmer push while typing. Overall, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter choice, while the TTC Flame Red is heavier, appealing to different preferences based on typing experience and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, while the Flame Red offers a more traditional travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Akko switch has a quicker response time, making it a better choice for gamers or those who prefer a more immediate tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel that some users appreciate for comfort and depth during typing. Ultimately, if you prioritize a responsive experience, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the ideal option, whereas those who enjoy a deeper press may favor the TTC Flame Red switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 Creamy Purple Pro offers a loud sound signature that leans toward the bassier side, providing an invigorating audio experience that many typists find satisfying and distinctive. In contrast, the TTC Flame Red switches present a more neutral auditory profile. Their moderate sound level strikes a balance that makes them suitable for diverse environments, whether at home or in an office setting. While the V3 Creamy Purple Pro can command attention with its pronounced audio characteristics, the Flame Red’s quieter, mild clackiness ensures it can blend seamlessly into your surroundings.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a notable tactile bump, creating an assertive typing experience that provides clear feedback with each keystroke. This makes it particularly appealing to users who enjoy tactile responsiveness. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switches offer a more subdued experience; characterized by a mild and polished feel, they provide a smooth and gentle typing action that caters well to beginners and those seeking a less intense keypress. The polished nature of the Flame Red switches further enhances the typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and an overall slick key travel.
In summary, if you prefer pronounced tactile feedback and a louder sound when typing, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is likely the better choice for you. Conversely, if you value a smoother, more neutral experience that will mesh well in quieter environments, the TTC Flame Red switches would be ideal. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so your choice ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound profile or prefer a milder and smoother typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking for. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback and a more audible typing experience, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent choice, especially if you're using your keyboard for activities like gaming or typing, where you appreciate the reinforcement from the tactile bump and the richer, bassier sound signature. Conversely, if your focus leans towards a smoother, more neutral experience with a refined sound and feel, particularly if you're working on creative tasks or require a versatile switch for both home and office settings, the TTC Flame Red is likely the better option. Its polished finish provides a smooth keypress, making it ideal for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience without the distraction of excessive sound. Additionally, if aesthetics matter to you, the Flame Red's striking light diffuser adds visual appeal, particularly in backlit setups. Ultimately, considering the balance between feel, sound, and the intended use of your keyboard will guide you in making the right decision for your personal typing style.
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