TTC Gold Brown vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and Akko V3 Silver Pro stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Gold Brown switch is renowned for its well-rounded nature, offering a slight bump and satisfying weightiness while emitting a softer sound profile compared to many other switches. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch is tailored for gamers, boasting smooth keystrokes and a bassy sound with light actuation force and shortened travel distance for swift gameplay. While the Gold Brown switch excels in balance and tactile feedback, the V3 Silver Pro switch shines in speed and responsiveness, making it ideal for competitive gaming. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Brown and the Akko V3 Silver Pro use polycarbonate for their top housing material, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing experience. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when typing or gaming.
On the other hand, the Gold Brown and the V3 Silver Pro differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Gold Brown using nylon and the V3 Silver Pro also utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their bottom housing. Therefore, despite having different top housings, users can experience a similar typing sound and feel when using the Gold Brown and the V3 Silver Pro, thanks to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing in both the Gold Brown and the V3 Silver Pro results in a balanced sound profile with unique characteristics. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. By understanding the qualities that each housing material brings to the switch, users can appreciate the nuances in sound and feel that distinguish the Gold Brown from the V3 Silver Pro.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch's lighter actuation force of 40 grams. The bottom out force for the Gold Brown is 63 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. The Gold Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the V3 Silver Pro is lighter, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, catering to individuals with different preferences. In this case, choosing the Gold Brown will provide a heavier typing experience, while the V3 Silver Pro will offer a lighter touch, resulting in different typing experiences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, the Gold Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.3 mm travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro. The Gold Brown offers a more traditional depth, providing a more deliberate and satisfying key press, whereas the V3 Silver Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Gold Brown offering a more substantial feel while the V3 Silver Pro offers a faster, more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various uses whether at home or work. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched sharp and crisp sound, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a brighter sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience, making it approachable to a wide range of users. It offers a balanced tactile feel with a moderate actuation force. On the contrary, the V3 Silver Pro switch is known for its easy-to-press and creamy feel, providing a smooth and low-impact typing experience. These switches are designed for gamers who require quick and effortless keystrokes.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches offer different sound and feel characteristics tailored to diverse preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a more neutral sound and balanced tactile feel, the Gold Brown switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a high-pitched sound and smooth, easy-to-press sensation, the V3 Silver Pro switch could be more suitable. Consider your personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider the specific needs and preferences you have for your keyboard experience. If you value a balanced feel with a moderate bump and weightiness, the Gold Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and a pleasing bassy sound for gaming or fast-paced scenarios, the V3 Silver Pro may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild, buttery typing experience or a higher-pitched sound with easy-to-press, creamy keypresses. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and use case to enhance your overall typing experience.
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