TTC Flame Red vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red stands out for its visually striking light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who prioritize aesthetics in their backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, offering a satisfying experience for users. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are praised for their higher-pitched sound profile and a tactile bump, enhancing the typing experience with a bouncy and snappy feel. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, let's delve deeper to better understand the nuances of each switch and determine the best option for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound, offering a more comfortable typing experience. However, the Flame Red features a nylon top housing, while the Lavender Purple Pro opts for polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Lavender Purple Pro produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more clear and resonant typing experience. Overall, both switches provide a unique sound profile based on their housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro shines with its polycarbonate top housing, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through and create a visually appealing typing experience. The transparent nature of polycarbonate enhances the overall look of the switch, making it stand out among other switches on the market. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal but still provides a satisfying typing experience with its deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches offer a balance between functionality and design, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
When it comes to the feel and sound of the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both the Flame Red and the Lavender Purple Pro contributes to a more comfortable typing feel, absorbing sound and providing a deeper sound profile. However, the top housing of each switch brings its own unique characteristics to the table, with the Flame Red's nylon top housing offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the Lavender Purple Pro's polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound profile, aesthetics, or a combination of both in your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, both have a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, making them ideal for quick and precise typing. However, the Flame Red has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 54 grams compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams, making it slightly easier to press all the way down. This difference is minimal and may not be noticeable to everyone. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, both switches will provide similar results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of preferred weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Flame Red being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Flame Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Flame Red switch offers a neutral sound profile that is versatile for various environments and levels of expertise. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch's sound profile is not specified, so it's important to consider other factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and gentle keypress. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch, on the other hand, is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, indicating a more tactile and lively typing experience with a refined finish.
Overall, the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red is best suited for those looking for a smooth and weighty typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Lavender Purple Pro switch caters to enthusiasts seeking a more lively and tactile typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a visually stunning and smooth typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red with its light diffuser and moderate actuation force may be the best choice for you, especially if you have a backlit, RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile, a satisfying tactile bump, and a bouncy, snappy typing experience, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what features matter most to you.
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