Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch known for its fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is a tactile switch that provides a medium level of tactility for a satisfying typing experience, all while remaining quiet, making it ideal for shared environments. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different typing styles and environments. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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 housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to their stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches where clarity and resonance are important, especially if RGB lighting is involved. However, the V3 Crystal Pro differs in that it also has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that the Silent Bluish White (V2) may have a slightly different sound feel compared to the V3 Crystal Pro due to the differences in bottom housing material.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate in their top housings, making them visually appealing when paired with RGB lighting. However, the choice of bottom housing material between the V3 Crystal Pro and the Silent Bluish White (V2) can greatly impact the overall sound experience. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing works in conjunction with the top housing to create a clear and resonant sound profile, while the Silent Bluish White (V2)'s nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. This means that the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics.
Overall, while the top housings of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) are similar in material and sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material between the two switches can result in distinct sound experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro's all-polycarbonate construction offers a consistent and clear sound profile throughout, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. Both switches have their unique benefits and may appeal to different preferences based on the desired sound characteristics.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) only needs 50 grams. This means that the Akko switch provides a more consistent typing experience with a medium actuation and bottom out force, while the TTC switch offers a lighter feel overall. The V3 Crystal Pro would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) would be a better choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro linear switch. The difference may not be significant, but it could affect the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a quicker response time may opt for the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch with the shorter travel distance, while others who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
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 Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $5.35.
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 chirpy sound, which sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch provides a more muted sound, aiming to minimize noise levels for quiet environments. The sound produced by both switches ultimately depends on other factors such as the keyboard platform and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provides a bouncy and polished typing experience, with a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offers a buttery and mild feel, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation. The subtle and stepped characteristics of the Silent Bluish Whites present a more gentle resistance compared to the lively bounce of the Crystal Pro, making them appealing to a broader range of users.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Pro stands out with its chirpy sound and bouncy feel, while the Silent Bluish White V2 focuses on muted sound and buttery sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches cater to different needs in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, users can expect a smooth and precise typing experience with either switch option, albeit with different sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and bright sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the V3 Crystal Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a satisfying level of resistance and a buttery and mild feel, then the Silent Bluish White (V2) may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a chirpy sound and bouncy feel or a muted sound and buttery feel in your mechanical keyboard switches. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment for an optimal typing experience.
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