Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference in feel and sound, and two popular options are the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Neptune. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback that appeals to typists who enjoy the sensation of each keystroke. Its louder, bassier sound signature makes it a great choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback as part of their typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune presents a contrasting approach with its linear design, characterized by an innovative internal structure that ensures a smooth, nearly frictionless glide paired with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy mochi. This makes it ideal for users seeking a swift and effortless typing experience, complemented by a more subdued, thocky sound that won't disrupt your environment. Each switch offers distinct advantages depending on the user's typing style and preferences; the Creamy Purple Pro caters to those who cherish tactile feedback, while the Neptune appeals to those who prioritize smoothness and quietness. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the TTC Neptune, it becomes clear that they employ different materials for their top and bottom housings, which directly influences the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This trait is largely attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity—particularly advantageous in setups that utilize RGB lighting due to the material's translucence. In contrast, the Neptune utilizes a POM top housing, which yields a deeper and more muted sound profile. This distinction suggests that, while both switches have distinct auditory qualities, the V3 will deliver a brighter auditory experience compared to the Neptune’s softer tones.
Diving deeper into the bottom housing, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is crafted from nylon, a material recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory signature. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which again creates a sharper and more resonant sound. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, users of the V3 might notice a more pronounced auditory impact when bottoming out, contributing to a robust typing experience. This divergence underscores how the choice of materials can dramatically shape user experience, further enhancing the character of each switch.
Together, these differences in material composition showcase how varied sound profiles can be achieved even with considerable overlap in certain characteristics. However, the combination of materials remains crucial. While the V3 Creamy Purple Pro’s nylon bottom and polycarbonate top create a contrast that emphasizes fuller lows with crisper highs, the Neptune's dual polycarbonate top and bottom produce a more consistently sharp and resonant sound throughout. Ultimately, while the two switches possess unique sound signatures and tactile experiences due to their differing top and bottom housing materials, both can be appreciated for their unique auditory profiles in their own right, appealing to different preferences among users in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch with the TTC Neptune linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces that cater to different typing preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, while the Neptune requires a heftier 41 grams to actuate. This means that those who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing or gaming sessions would benefit from the V3 Creamy Purple Pro. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent resistance when fully pressed. Consequently, the Neptune will feel heavier overall due to its higher actuation force, making it more suitable for those who appreciate a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on individual preference for weight and feedback during use.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it notably shallower than the TTC Neptune linear switch, which features a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference means that the V3 Creamy Purple Pro will feel more responsive and allow for quicker key presses, catering well to gamers who favor faster response times. In contrast, the Neptune's longer travel distance may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial, tactile feedback from each keystroke, providing a more satisfying typing experience for users who prefer depth. Ultimately, if you're seeking swifter actions, the Akko V3 will serve you better, while the TTC Neptune is suited for those who enjoy a more pronounced key 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 Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 offers a distinctly loud auditory experience, characterized by a bass-heavy tonal quality that makes each keypress resonate in a robust manner. This switch’s sound profile is invigorating, likely appealing to those who enjoy pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune presents a muted and thocky sound signature that is significantly softer and less intrusive. It produces deep, rich sounds that deliver a satisfying "thock" upon actuation, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing environment while still enjoying a pleasing audio response.
When evaluating the feel of the two switches, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is noted for its pronounced tactile bump, providing a clear indication of actuation with each keystroke. This tactile feedback can enhance typing precision, but it may not suit everyone's preferences. Conversely, the TTC Neptune excels in creating a frictionless and almost buttery typing experience, characterized by a smooth glide with a spongy resistance much like chewy mochi. It promises effortless key presses and a polished feel, making it incredibly enjoyable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro delivers a loud and tactile experience, ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate pronounced feedback and a bass-rich sound, the TTC Neptune switch caters to those who cherish a smooth, muted, and easy-to-type enjoyment with its thocky sound and polished feel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference between the defining characteristics of tactile feedback and an effortless typing experience. As you explore these switches, you'll find each offers unique traits that cater to different typing styles, allowing you to create the perfect setup according to your individual needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy the sensation of a pronounced tactile bump and don’t mind a louder typing experience, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be the right fit for you. Its heavier tactile feedback and bassy sound profile can enhance your typing experience, particularly if you're doing more programming or writing where you need to feel each keypress distinctly. However, if you're looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience, the TTC Neptune linear switch might better meet your needs. Its frictionless glide and thocky sound signature can create a satisfying yet subdued atmosphere, ideal for both gaming and work environments where noise levels matter. Ultimately, consider the context in which you'll be using your keyboard and the feedback you prefer to ensure you select the switch that enhances your overall experience.
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