Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Iron, both of which are linear switches. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique sound and feel that is described as bouncy, chirpy, and polished. On the other hand, the TTC Iron offers a pronounced clacky sound signature that adds an aural satisfaction to each press, along with being easy-to-press, clacky, mild, and neutral in feel. While the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offers a silky smooth typing experience, the TTC Iron ensures swift and fatigue-free typing sessions with its buttery smooth travel. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the TTC Iron's POM top housing produces a sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. While the V3 housing material offers a more vibrant and transparent sound experience, the Iron provides a more subdued and mellow acoustic experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Iron offer unique characteristics. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a sharp, high-pitched sound profile similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Iron creates a pleasing and deep sound profile that is more subdued. This difference in sound profiles extends to the feel of the switch when pressed, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Iron will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a sharper, crisper sound profile throughout both its top and bottom housings, while the TTC Iron provides a deeper and more muted sound experience. Both housing materials have their own unique qualities, catering to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a more vibrant and clear sound or a deeper and more subdued tone, both switches offer distinct characteristics to that cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the TTC Iron linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The V3 Crystal Pro requires an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the TTC Iron switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Iron switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the TTC Iron switch may be the better choice. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and TTC Iron linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. With both switches having an equal travel distance, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key press depth. Whether choosing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro or the TTC Iron linear switch, the travel distance will be the same, resulting in similar results for typing and gaming purposes.
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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron 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 is described as having a chirpy sound signature, which adds a unique squeak to each key press. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy noise that resonates with each press. The difference in sound between the two switches creates distinct auditory experiences for the user, with the Crystal Pro being more bright and chirpy, while the Iron boasts a more pronounced clacky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is noted for its bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, refined finish for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Iron linear switch is lauded for its easy-to-press and mild feel, offering gentle resistance during key presses and a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The differences in feel between the two switches cater to different preferences, with the Crystal Pro providing a lively and polished typing experience, while the Iron offers a responsive and low-impact feel for comfortable extended typing sessions.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, it's evident that they offer distinct sound and feel experiences for users. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel when typing, individuals can choose between the bright and chirpy sound of the Crystal Pro with its bouncy and polished feel, or the sharp and snappy sound of the Iron with its easy-to-press and mild feel. Both switches excel in their own right, providing enthusiasts and daily users with options that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in a satisfying typing experience, with the differences in sound and feel offering unique sensations to enhance the overall typing pleasure.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, a pronounced clacky sound signature that adds an aural satisfaction to your typing experience, along with swift and fatigue-free typing sessions, then the TTC Iron linear switch is worth considering. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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