TTC Flaming Purple vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flaming Purple and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro stand out as top contenders. The Flaming Purple is a linear switch known for its resonant character and bassier sound profile, making each key press engaging and distinct. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch with a higher-pitched sound and a satisfying tactile bump, providing a delightful typing experience for enthusiasts. While the Flaming Purple offers an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, the Lavender Purple Pro excels in its accented and bouncy keystrokes. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The Flaming Purple and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that resonates sound more clearly. Additionally, both top housings offer translucency, making them ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. This similarity in material means that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
However, a key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Flaming Purple utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, providing users with the same deep and full sound experience as the Flaming Purple. This commonality in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound.
When it comes to the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom of a switch can greatly affect its overall sound profile and typing feel. With the Flaming Purple and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro sharing similar top and bottom housing materials, users can expect consistent performance in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple switch is lighter in both regards. The Flaming Purple has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 45 grams, while its bottom out force of 47 grams is also lighter than the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams. This means that the Flaming Purple switch will offer a lighter typing experience overall. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Flaming Purple switch. The Flaming Purple switch may offer a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a bit more depth when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched characteristics, offering a resonant and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, contributing to a delightful typing experience. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall keyboard setup in which they are used.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and silky, providing a light and effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized by being accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a tactile and responsive typing feel with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, catering to different typing preferences and needs.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Flaming Purple switch offers a bassier and feathery typing experience, the Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a smooth, feathery typing experience with a bassy, resonant sound profile, then the TTC Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom-out force and a tactile switch with accented tactility, a bouncy feel, and a polished finish, then the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.