Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Silent Brown 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 the TTC Silent Brown are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro boasts a fully polycarbonate construction that provides a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a silky smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy bouncy and polished switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, perfect for those who prefer a buttery, mild, and muted switch. 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
63.5g
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
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 TTC Silent Brown switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, the Silent Brown switch also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder overall sound.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the V3 Crystal Pro and TTC Silent Brown switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housings. These similarities include the sharp, crisp sound profile created by the relatively stiff plastic, as well as the aesthetic appeal of the translucency for showcasing RGB lighting. However, where the Silent Brown switch excels in providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing, the V3 Crystal Pro may offer a more distinct sound when pressing down on the switch, as the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
In conclusion, while both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and TTC Silent Brown switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users may gravitate towards one switch over the other based on these housing material differences. Ultimately, both switches provide unique sound profiles and aesthetics that cater to a variety of preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The V3 Crystal Pro is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, but lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Silent Brown. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience, while the Silent Brown may require a slightly lighter touch for triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users opting for a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is 3.8mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the V3 Crystal Pro or the Silent Brown, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience with their identical travel distances.
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 Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch produces a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy and polished, offering a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished, providing a smooth keystroke experience with gentle characteristics that are approachable for most users.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out for its bright and chirpy sound signature and silky smooth typing experience, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a bouncy and polished typing experience or a buttery and mild one, both switches offer a high-quality performance that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a muted sound profile with a comfortable typing experience and a satisfying tactile bump, the Silent Brown could be the ideal choice. Additionally, if you appreciate a bouncy and polished feel with a spring-like feedback sensation, the V3 Crystal Pro may suit your preferences. Conversely, if you prefer a buttery and mild tactile experience with a smooth and uniform typing sensation, the Silent Brown could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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