Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Flame Red both offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique bouncy and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Flame Red stands out with its dazzling light diffuser, making it perfect for those who enjoy a backlit, RGB keyboard aesthetic. Typing on the Flame Reds offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. While these general descriptions offer a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Flame Red, we see that the V3 Crystal Pro uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, while the Flame Red utilizes nylon for both parts. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those seeking a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to produce a duller and rounder tone. Both materials have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
One key difference between the V3 Crystal Pro and the Flame Red is the material used in their top housings. While the V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, offering a clear and resonant sound profile suitable for RGB lighting, the Flame Red employs nylon for a deeper and fuller sound experience. The choice between the two will depend on whether the user prioritizes a sharper sound with a clearer profile or a deeper, more rounded tone. Both materials have their own advantages, catering to different preferences in sound quality for mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Flame Red maintain consistency in their material choices. Polycarbonate is used in the V3 Crystal Pro's bottom housing, contributing to the overall sharper and crisper sound profile of the switch. In contrast, the Flame Red's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience, absorbing more sound for a rounder tone. The differences in material between the top and bottom housings of each switch give users a variety of options to customize the typing experience based on their sound preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the TTC Flame Red linear switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams while the Flame Red only needs 54 grams. This makes the Flame Red switch slightly lighter in both categories. This means that the Flame Red switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter keypress, making it ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation forces, providing users with a decent amount of feedback without being too strenuous. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Flame Red switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the slight difference may be noticeable to some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Flame Red switch to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a chirpy sound profile and a bouncy, polished feel, making it ideal for those looking for a bright and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch provides a neutral sound and a mild, polished feel, offering a more approachable typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. While both switches share a polished feel, the V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its unique chirpy sound, while the Flame Red is known for its visually striking light diffuser. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a more distinct auditory experience and the Flame Red providing a versatile option for various typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines: choose the V3 Crystal Pro if you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, as well as a bouncy and polished feel. On the other hand, opt for the Flame Red if you value a switch with a dazzling light diffuser for backlit keyboards, along with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, as well as a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prefer a more unique sound and feel with the V3 Crystal Pro or a visually striking switch with a versatile sound and feel in the Flame Red.
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