Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and TTC Ice switches present two distinct options catering to different preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, which provides an invigorating feedback during keystrokes, making it a great choice for typists who appreciate the feel of each key press. However, this switch also delivers a loud, bassy sound signature that can either enhance or disrupt the typing experience, depending on your environment. In contrast, the TTC Ice switches offer a smooth and linear feel, featuring a crystal-clear transparent design that not only looks stylish but also delivers a satisfying bottom-out sound. This makes them an ideal option for gamers and everyday users who prioritize a seamless typing experience without the tactile interruptions. Each switch has unique attributes that cater to specific needs; 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
Nylon
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Ice share a commonality in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This shared material leads to a heightened sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. Polycarbonate's inherent rigidity allows these switches to produce a crisper sound that resonates well, making them particularly well-suited for RGB lighting due to their translucency. This quality enhances the visual appeal of the switches when illuminated, creating a vibrant aesthetic that compliments their auditory performance. In this regard, users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches when engaged, as the properties of polycarbonate enable a standout performance that emphasizes the higher frequencies of sound.
However, the two switches differ significantly in their bottom housing materials. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro employs nylon for its bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition tends to absorb sound more effectively than polycarbonate, producing a duller and rounder sound when keys are actuated and bottomed out. In contrast, the TTC Ice features polycarbonate for its bottom housing, mirroring its top housing in sound properties. As a result, the Ice maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the entire keypress, lacking the depth that the nylon offers in the V3 Creamy Purple Pro. This distinction creates two distinct auditory experiences, where the Akko switch offers a broader sound spectrum while the TTC switch remains consistent in its clarity.
Ultimately, the differing bottom housing materials result in distinct user experiences during typing and gaming. When actuating the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, users will notice a pronounced bottom-out impact characterized by the warmth and fullness of the nylon. In comparison, the TTC Ice will deliver a more uniform sound experience across its range, marked by the crispness of polycarbonate. This means that while both switches have similarities in the top housing sound characteristics, the tactile and auditory feedback users receive will diverge significantly based on the bottom housing, resulting in unique preferences depending on individual typing styles and sound profiles desired.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch to the TTC Ice linear switch, there are clear differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions and gaming due to its reduced resistance. In contrast, the TTC Ice linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with firmer feedback. As a result, users who prioritize ease of use over tactile feedback may find the Akko switch more appealing, while those who enjoy the sensation of a stronger key press should opt for the TTC Ice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the TTC Ice measures 3.6 mm. This makes the V3 Creamy Purple Pro the shorter option, appealing to those who favor quicker response times, which is particularly advantageous for gamers. On the other hand, the TTC Ice, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying depth for users who prefer a more tactile and less abrupt experience while typing or gaming. Thus, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a swift actuation or a substantial keystroke feel.
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 Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice 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 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch has a loud sound signature characterized by a bassier pitch. This results in a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing, which can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy an audible confirmation with each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Ice linear switch produces a satisfying bottom-out sound and is designed with a crystal-clear transparent casing, enhancing the auditory experience while maintaining a smoother overall noise profile. Though both provide auditory feedback, the Creamy Purple Pro leans toward a more robust, resonant sound, while the Ice offers a cleaner, subtler audio experience.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is well-known for its large and invigorating tactile bump, delivering a distinct tactile response that many typists and gamers appreciate, as it helps in accurately discerning key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Ice linear switch focuses on providing a smooth and responsive typing experience without a tactile bump. This results in a uniform feel across the key travel, which is particularly favored by those who prefer a seamless action without interruption.
In conclusion, if you’re looking to explore mechanical switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and TTC Ice switches offer contrasting experiences in both sound and feel. The Creamy Purple Pro provides a louder, more tactile feedback ideal for those who thrive on auditory cues, while the Ice switch presents a smoother, more linear experience conducive to fluid typing and gaming across a quieter sound profile. Depending on your preferences, both switches can offer a rewarding typing experience, but the choice ultimately hinges on whether you favor a pronounced tactile sensation or a seamless linear action.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter actuation force combined with a pronounced tactile bump and a bass-heavy sound signature, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the ideal choice for you. This switch is well-suited for those who appreciate a distinct tactile feedback while typing and is particularly beneficial for enthusiasts who thrive on a more engaging and dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more linear feel with a slightly heavier actuation force and a clean, satisfying bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice switch will likely meet your needs. This switch caters to users looking for a more polished and straightforward typing feel, making it excellent for both gaming and everyday tasks. Your ultimate decision should reflect your priorities in sound, feel, and overall experience, so take these factors into consideration when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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