Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Gold Brown Pro are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch known for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bouncy and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that offers a subtle and nuanced feedback with a gentle tactile bump, allowing for a quiet and understated typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro is perfect for those who enjoy a bright and chirpy sound, the Gold Brown Pro is ideal for individuals who value a subdued and immersive typing experience. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Gold Brown Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are meant to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of feel, the bottom housing material of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down, while the top housing material affects the sound when a key is released. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro and the Gold Brown Pro will offer slightly different sensory experiences for users depending on whether they are typing or releasing keys. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro's use of nylon in the bottom housing gives it a distinct advantage in creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to the V3 Crystal Pro.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Gold Brown Pro capitalize on the unique properties of their housing materials to deliver specific sound profiles and tactile experiences for users. While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top and bottom housings emphasize clarity and resonance, the Gold Brown Pro's combination of polycarbonate and nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound with added impact and absorption. Whether one prefers a crisper sound or a more rounded tone, each switch provides a distinct typing experience based on its housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's unknown force. Both switches offer a medium-weight feel, which provides a balance between typing comfort and feedback. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - those who prefer a slightly lighter touch may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the differences in weight catering to different typing styles.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is equal, both measuring 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance indicates that users can expect a consistent tactile experience from both switches, with neither being shorter or longer than the other. In terms of typing or gaming performance, the comparable travel distance of these switches ensures that users will get similar results when using either one.
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 Gold Brown 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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique and distinctive chirpy sound, providing an auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep and satisfying, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. Both switches offer different sound profiles, catering to individuals with varying preferences in terms of typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch boasts a bouncy and polished typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a refined finish for smooth key travel. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch offers a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped typing experience. This means that users can expect reduced friction, gentle resistance, and a more nuanced tactile feel compared to the livelier bounce of the Crystal Pro. The Gold Brown Pro is designed for those who value a more subtle and refined typing experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and TTC Gold Brown Pro switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Crystal Pro delivers a bright and chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, while the Gold Brown Pro provides a thocky, low-pitched sound with a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more vibrant sound and bouncy feel or a subdued sound and refined tactility in your typing experience. Both switches offer high-quality performance, so you can expect similar reliability and durability regardless of which one you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences and needs. If you value a bright and chirpy sound profile along with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle, understated tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile to minimize distractions while typing, the Gold Brown Pro could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound and feel characteristics such as bouncy and polished for the V3 Crystal Pro, or polished, silky, and subtle for the Gold Brown Pro. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and needs.
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