TTC Flaming Purple vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Purple stands out for its bassier sound profile and feathery touch, making each keystroke a resonant and effortless experience, perfect for enthusiasts and daily typists looking for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches are praised for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience that appeals to those who prefer a tactile feedback. 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
3.50 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
Nylon
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 spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, it is interesting to note the differences in sound profiles created by their respective top housings. The Flaming Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is contrasted with the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. While the polycarbonate material provides a clear and resonant sound, the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Both materials have their advantages depending on the type of sound experience the user is looking for, with polycarbonate being ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
The bottom housings of the Flaming Purple and the V3 Piano Pro both utilize nylon, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the difference in materials between the top and bottom housings can impact the overall typing experience. The softer nylon material in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing's material plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. This highlights the importance of the composition of both the top and bottom housings in determining the overall sound characteristics of a mechanical keyboard switch.
While the TTC Flaming Purple and Akko V3 Piano Pro may have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the Flaming Purple's top housing results in a clear and resonant sound, ideal for those seeking a sharper tone. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to those looking for a more rounded typing experience. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches prioritize sound quality, demonstrating how material selection can significantly impact the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple is lighter in both aspects. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Flaming Purple make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro provides a slightly heavier typing experience, which some users may find to be more substantial and satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Flaming Purple offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Flaming Purple offering a longer travel distance and the V3 Piano Pro providing a slightly shorter one.
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 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 comparing the sound qualities of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple offers a deeper, bassier sound profile with a touch of poppy undertones. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro delivers a snappy and crisp sound that adds a lively quality to each keystroke. Both switches possess resonant characteristics, providing a clean and sharp sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard in terms of board and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Flaming Purple is lauded for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro is described as bouncy, creamy, and polished, offering a spring-like feedback sensation, smooth keystrokes, and refined key travel. Both switches provide a silky typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and comfort during typing sessions. While the Flaming Purple focuses on light actuation force and effortless typing, the V3 Piano Pro excels in providing a lively and smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Flaming Purple offers a bassier sound profile and a feathery typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro provides a snappier sound and a bouncy, creamy feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Regardless of choice, both switches promise a satisfying and immersive mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in both sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a bassier sound profile that provides a feathery typing experience, the TTC Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappier, clacky sound with a smooth and bouncy feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch could be more suited to your typing style. Whether you prioritize a resonant sound or a creamy feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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