Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference, and two excellent options to consider are the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro. The Creamy Purple Pro is distinguished by its prominent tactile bump and a bass-heavy sound profile, making it an enticing choice for users who appreciate noticeable feedback while typing and enjoy an engaging auditory experience. This switch excels in scenarios where tactile sensation is key, appealing to those who enjoy a little character in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro shines with its linear design, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience without tactile interruptions. Its neutral sound signature allows it to blend seamlessly into any environment, whether you’re gaming, working in an office, or simply typing away at home. While both switches cater to different preferences—one with a tactile punch and a rich auditory signature and the other with smooth, versatile action—choosing between them ultimately depends on what you value most in your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro share notable similarities in their housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in both switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic enables a clear and resonant acoustic experience, which is particularly pronounced in the context of RGB lighting due to its translucency. As a result, users can expect bright and vivid illumination effects with both switches, enhancing not just the aesthetic appeal but also the overall sound quality during typing.
While both switches capitalize on polycarbonate for the upper section, they diverge in the qualities of the lower housing material. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gold Red Pro both incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, which introduces a contrasting auditory characteristic. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound and contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. When pressed, the key's bottom-out sound and feel are significantly influenced by this nylon material, producing a rounder sound that softens the typing experience. Therefore, while both switches exhibit a lively top-end due to their identical polycarbonate top housing, the nylon on the bottom helps refine and deepen the overall acoustics of each keystroke.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch creates a unique auditory relationship where sound quality is influenced by both the top and bottom housings. Even though the materials are the same, the split housing types allow for differentiated sound profiles upon keypress and release. Users of both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro can expect similar results in terms of sharpness and resonance from the polycarbonate tops, while experiencing rich depth and warmth from the nylon bottoms. This cohesive blend of materials balances the acoustic performance, providing an enriching typing experience irrespective of the switch choice.
Weight
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch present distinct experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts a relatively light actuation force of 30 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro features a heavier actuation force of 43 grams, catering to users who favor a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. While the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro remains unspecified, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro's bottom out force is measured at 50 grams, reinforcing its lightness compared to the Gold Red Pro's presumed heavier action. Overall, users looking for a more tactile and lighter typing experience should gravitate toward the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, while those seeking a firmer push feel are likely to prefer the TTC Gold Red Pro.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the V3 Creamy Purple Pro the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience with quicker actuation, which is often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance may appeal to users who appreciate a deeper, more substantial feel with each keypress, providing a tactile feedback that some might find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Akko V3 offering a snappier response and the TTC Gold Red providing a traditional, hearty depth.
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 Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 comparing the sound of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch to the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, notable distinctions arise. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by a loud sound signature with a bassier pitch that is likely to be more pronounced in auditory environments. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro exhibits a neutral sound signature, allowing it to blend seamlessly into various settings without being overly disruptive. Its thocky, low-pitched tones produce a deep and satisfying sound, which can still provide feedback without overwhelming your surroundings. Thus, while the V3 aims for a bold auditory presence, the Gold Red Pro focuses on harmonious versatility.
Regarding the feel of these switches, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its invigorating tactile bump, while specific characteristics of its feel are not fully detailed. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro is crafted with a polished and silky finish that accounts for a smooth and refined typing experience. The mild and subtle resistance of this switch suggests that it is forgiving and easy to use, making it accessible to both beginners and more advanced users. For those who enjoy a tactile feedback with a robust bump, the V3 may appeal more, while the Gold Red Pro offers an exceptionally smooth, user-friendly experience.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch present unique offerings that cater to different preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is for those who revel in a loud sound and a tactile experience, whereas the Gold Red Pro is all about smoothness and versatility with a neutral auditory presence. If you're seeking a bold typing encounter, the V3 is your match; conversely, if you prefer something that melds effortlessly into diverse environments, the Gold Red Pro will serve you well. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or a polished and unobtrusive typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage scenarios. If you enjoy a tactile feel with a pronounced bump and a louder, bassier sound signature, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is likely the better fit for you, especially if you are engaging in activities like typing or even gaming that benefit from auditory feedback. Its 50-gram actuation force provides a light yet satisfying press, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more interactive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother, quieter typing experience that can seamlessly transition between casual typing and more intense gaming sessions, the TTC Gold Red Pro would be your go-to option. Its polished and silky feel ensures minimal resistance, while the neutral sound profile allows it to adapt well to various environments, from office settings to home use. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you favor tactile engagement or a smooth and unobtrusive typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
