Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, to the TTC Silent Red, also a linear switch, some key differences and similarities come to light. The V3 Crystal Pro is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a unique sound and feel characterized by a bright and chirpy sound signature. On the other hand, the Silent Red is known for its smooth and seamless typing experience with a muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet environments. Both switches provide a polished feel to typing, but the V3 Crystal Pro is described as bouncy and the Silent Red as buttery. While the V3 Crystal Pro is best suited for those who enjoy a more tactile experience, the Silent Red is perfect for those who prioritize a quiet typing environment. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Silent Red, we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a more visually appealing switch, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the Silent Red differs in its use of a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Silent Red switch.
The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch affects the overall sound profile and feel of typing on each switch. The V3 Crystal Pro, with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, will have a consistent sharp, high-pitched sound when pressing down on keys and a clear, resonant sound when letting go. On the other hand, the Silent Red's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a more nuanced typing experience. The impact of the nylon bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel contrasts with the sharper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing, offering a mix of depth and clarity in typing.
While both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the TTC Silent Red utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the use of different bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Crystal Pro's stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the Silent Red's softer nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a crisper sound and the Silent Red providing a more rounded sound experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force at 48 grams compared to the TTC Silent Red's 45 grams, making it better for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams while the TTC Silent Red needs 63.5 grams, making the Silent Red slightly heavier for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a good balance for various typing preferences. Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the TTC Silent Red is heavier when it comes to bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is slightly longer at 3.8mm compared to the 3.7mm of the TTC Silent Red linear switch. While the difference between the two may seem minor, it can have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. In general, a shorter travel distance often translates to faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick actions. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress experience for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 switch offers a chirpy and distinctive typing experience with a little squeak that sets it apart from others, while the TTC Silent Red switch provides a muted and softer sound profile perfect for quiet environments like offices or shared spaces. When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like feedback and a sleek typing experience, whereas the Silent Red switch offers a buttery and mild feel with a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation that is approachable to most users. Both switches have a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, users can expect a bright and chirpy sound from the V3 Crystal Pro switch with a silky smooth typing experience, while the TTC Silent Red switch delivers a muted sound and comfortable, padded bottom-out feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the unique qualities offered by these two switches to suit their typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the TTC Silent Red linear switch, you should think about your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the V3 Crystal Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted sound with a buttery and mild feel, the Silent Red might be more suitable, especially if you are looking for a quiet typing experience in a shared environment. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on how you prioritize sound and feel in your typing experience.
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