Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Flaming Purple mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bouncy and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple offers a resonant character with a touch of a poppy undertone, thanks to its bassier sound signature. In addition, the Flaming Purple is known for its feathery nature and easy-to-press keys, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts and daily typists. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Flaming Purple both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Flaming Purple differentiates itself with its nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top housing of the V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Flaming Purple results in a similar sharp and crisp sound profile, beneficial for users looking for a higher-pitched typing experience. However, where they differ is in the bottom housings, with the Crystal Pro having a polycarbonate bottom housing while the Flaming Purple utilizes nylon. This variation means that the Crystal Pro may offer a more consistent sound profile throughout typing, with the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Flaming Purple's nylon bottom housing may provide a different tactile experience.
In terms of material characteristics, the stiffer polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to its clear and resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon in the Flaming Purple's bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material properties leads to distinct typing experiences with each switch, with the Crystal Pro offering a crisper sound and a potentially more uniform feel, while the Flaming Purple provides a deeper sound profile and a unique tactile sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it is clear that the Flaming Purple is the lighter option overall. The V3 Crystal Pro has a higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Flaming Purple's 42 grams, making it slightly heavier to activate. Additionally, the V3 Crystal Pro also requires more force to bottom out at 60 grams, while the Flaming Purple only requires 47 grams, indicating a lighter overall typing experience. Both switches provide a different tactile experience due to their varied actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Flaming Purple may be the better choice. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro for a heavier typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Flaming Purple has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. A 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but for users who prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, the Flaming Purple may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so users can expect comparable results in terms of feedback and feel.
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 Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy sound, featuring a unique squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch provides a bassier and resonant sound profile, adding a poppy undertone to each keystroke. The sound preference between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Crystal Pro offering a bright and chirpy tone while the Flaming Purple delivers a deeper and richer auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch boasts a bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force to activate keys and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Whether you prefer a bouncy and polished typing experience or a feathery and effortless keystroke, both switches cater to different tactile preferences.
Taking all the information into account, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and TTC Flaming Purple linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Pro delivers a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the Flaming Purple provides a bassier sound profile and a feathery, low-impact typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a bright and chirpy typing experience or a deeper and resonant tone, both switches offer a unique and engaging typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a resonant character that leans towards a bassier sound profile, along with a feathery feel that allows for swift and effortless typing, then the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Consider the sound and feel aspects described for each switch to determine which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different tastes, so choose the one that resonates with you the most.
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