TTC Gold Brown vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro are two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown switch is praised for its balanced nature, offering a satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. It provides a soft, rounded sound profile that falls between being loud and completely silent. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, delivering a lively and crisp typing experience. While the Gold Brown switch is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Mild', the Piano Pro switch is labeled as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different users, 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, we can see similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. However, the Gold Brown differs in its use of polycarbonate for the top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
On the other hand, while the V3 Piano Pro also uses nylon for its top housing, it creates a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to that of the nylon bottom housing. This consistency in material between the top and bottom housings may result in a more cohesive typing experience compared to the Gold Brown's combination of polycarbonate and nylon. The V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing absorbs sound effectively, producing a richer overall sound when typing. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for typing aesthetics and feel.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While the Gold Brown offers a mix of polycarbonate and nylon for a sharper and clearer sound, the V3 Piano Pro maintains consistency with nylon for a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the richer sound of nylon, both switches provide quality housing materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in switch sound and feel.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams while the V3 Piano Pro needs 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range, with the Gold Brown being slightly heavier overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gold Brown, while those looking for a lighter touch may opt for the V3 Piano Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we can see that the Gold Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Gold Brown offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers and individuals looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Gold Brown offering a longer travel distance and the V3 Piano Pro providing a slightly shorter one, both yielding different tactile experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Gold Brown tactile switch offers a balanced and neutral sound profile that is softer than most switches but still audible enough. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a more lively and crisp sound signature, described as clacky and resonant. The Piano Pro's snappy sound adds a unique quality to each keystroke, creating a more immersive auditory experience compared to the Gold Brown.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. It also provides a polished and accented tactile feel that is not too overwhelming yet noticeable. Meanwhile, the V3 Piano Pro switch delivers a bouncy and creamy typing experience that is smooth and elastic, offering a silky sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches feature a polished finish, enhancing the overall typing experience with a sleek touch.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Brown provides a balanced and smooth typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro stands out with its lively sound signature and bouncy, creamy keystrokes. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar results with either choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Gold Brown if you prefer a balanced switch with a moderate bump and weightiness, providing a softer sound profile that is not completely silent. This switch is suitable for most intents and purposes and offers a mild, buttery, accented, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the V3 Piano Pro if you enjoy a snappy sound signature with a lively, crisp quality to each keystroke. These switches offer a clacky and resonant sound profile, along with a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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