TTC Flame Red vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red is favored for its stunning light diffuser, making it the top choice for those who seek a visually appealing RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a lively and crisp typing experience. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', these switches provide a pleasing tactile experience. 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
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
3.50 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
Nylon
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 spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Akko V3 Piano Pro are both made of nylon, which is known for its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these keyboards. The nylon material in both keyboards contributes to a duller and rounder sound overall, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who appreciate a softer and more pleasant typing sound.
Where the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Akko V3 Piano Pro differ is in the specific design of their top and bottom housings. The qualities of the nylon material are divided between the top and bottom housings of each switch, impacting the sound profile in different ways. The bottom housing of a switch will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. Despite these differences, the overall typing experience on both keyboards will still be characterized by the characteristics of nylon material, creating a consistent and enjoyable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the nylon housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Akko V3 Piano Pro provide users with a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. Both keyboards offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic, creating a more pleasant typing experience overall. While the specific design of the top and bottom housings may impact certain aspects of the sound profile, users can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience on either keyboard. Whether choosing the Flame Red or the V3 Piano Pro, keyboard enthusiasts can appreciate the benefits of nylon housing material in enhancing their typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Flame Red requires 54 grams while the V3 Piano Pro requires 55 grams, with the latter being slightly heavier. This means that the V3 Piano Pro will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Flame Red. For those who prefer a lighter touch to type for longer periods, the Flame Red may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Flame Red offers a slightly deeper key press compared to the V3 Piano Pro. This means that the Flame Red switch may provide a more tactile and substantial feel when typing or gaming. However, the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which could result in faster response times, making it preferred by some gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a clacky and resonant sound that adds a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. The sound produced by the V3 Piano Pro switch is sharper and more immersive compared to the Flame Red switch.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience that is smooth, buttery, and offers a spring-like feedback sensation. Both switches provide a pleasant tactile experience, but the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a more lively and elastic feel compared to the Flame Red switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a smoother sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the TTC Flame Red switch would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a sharper and more immersive sound and a bouncy, creamy typing feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch would be the better option. Remember that the overall typing experience is also influenced by factors such as keycaps, keyboard construction, and personal preference. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on your desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that appeal to you the most. If you prioritize a visually stunning backlight experience along with weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you favor a snappy sound signature with smooth actuation for a lively and crisp typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and visual appeal to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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