Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Gold Pink mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique advantages for different types of users. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switches are known for their extremely light 37g actuation force, catering to those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming sessions. While the Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished feel, the Gold Pink switches provide a buttery and subtle 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Gold Pink both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the light to shine through. On the other hand, the Gold Pink differs with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
In terms of aesthetics, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Gold Pink feature clear housings, making it more likely that they are composed of polycarbonate material. This clarity allows for a visually appealing look, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the functionality of the switch, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound profile when typing. The stiffer polycarbonate of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a more resonant sound upon key press, while the softer nylon of the Gold Pink offers a different typing experience with a deeper sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Gold Pink may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, with the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizing clarity and sharpness with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Gold Pink provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a rounder sound while typing, each switch offers a distinct experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Pink is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The lighter weight of the Gold Pink switch may appeal to those who prefer a smoother and easier typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more tactile feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences in keyboard switches.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, we can see that the V3 Crystal Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may affect the feel of the switch when pressed. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro, while those who prefer a slightly more pronounced keypress may opt for the Gold Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and actuation.
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 Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 is best described as having a chirpy sound, which adds a unique and lively element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch provides a clacky sound that offers a satisfying level of feedback. Both switches have distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Crystal Pro offering a brighter and chirpier sound, while the Gold Pink delivers a light and lively typing experience with its clacky sound. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like sensation and a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel, making it exceptionally light to press with little exertion required. The Gold Pink switch provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Crystal Pro feeling lively and bouncy, while the Gold Pink provides a smooth and gentle typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Pro provides a chirpy sound and a bouncy, polished feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a bright and lively typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gold Pink switch offers a clacky sound and a buttery, mild, feathery, and subtle feel, perfect for those looking for a light and smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a fast, effortless typing experience with a clacky sound, the Gold Pink switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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