TTC Gold Pink vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the TTC Gold Pink and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, individuals must consider their typing preferences to make the best decision. The Gold Pink, a linear switch with a 37g actuation force, excels in providing a light and effortless typing experience, perfect for rapid typists and gamers seeking speed and precision. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro linear switch stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a lively and tactile typing experience. While the Gold Pink offers a clacky sound and a feathery feel, the V3 Piano Pro boasts a creamy, resonant sound alongside a polished, silky texture. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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 Pink and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties. This similarity in housing material suggests that both switches may provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel when the keys are pressed. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile overall.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. While the Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, the V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, in contrast to the softer and more sound-absorbing properties of nylon. This distinction in top housing materials may result in a noticeable variation in sound and feel when pressing down on the keys between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in defining the sound profile and typing experience. The combination of nylon bottom housing with either polycarbonate or nylon top housing in the Gold Pink and V3 Piano Pro, respectively, showcases how the attributes of each housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound profile from polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound from nylon, the differences in housing materials between the two switches offer users a variety of options to tailor their typing experience to their preference.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a slightly more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Gold Pink is lighter overall, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Meanwhile, the V3 Piano Pro provides a bit more resistance, appealing to those who prefer a slightly heavier keypress. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer slightly different travel distances, with the Gold Pink measuring at 4 mm and the V3 Piano Pro measuring at 3.5 mm. The Gold Pink's 4 mm travel distance is slightly longer than the V3 Piano Pro's 3.5 mm, providing a bit of a deeper press when typing or gaming. Gamers seeking a more responsive key press may prefer the V3 Piano Pro's shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Gold Pink's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with each offering its own unique feel and experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Pink linear switch has a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a resonant sound, creating a higher-pitched and immersive typing experience. Both switches bring unique characteristics to the table in terms of sound, giving users options based on their preference for sound feedback during typing.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These descriptors highlight the smooth, light, and effortless typing experience that the Gold Pink switch offers. In comparison, the V3 Piano Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, emphasizing a bouncy, smooth, and refined typing sensation. While both switches provide a comfortable typing feel, the Gold Pink leans towards a lighter touch, while the V3 Piano Pro offers a more elastic and creamy typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Pink switch offers a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound profile, while the V3 Piano Pro provides a snappy and smooth typing experience with a resonant sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound feedback and typing feel, as both switches offer excellent options for those seeking a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a light and lively typing experience with a fast and effortless keystroke, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches are designed for rapid typing or gaming, offering a satisfying level of feedback with a clacky sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy sound signature with a smooth actuation and pleasing tactile experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch might be more suited to your preference. With a slightly higher bottom out force, the V3 Piano Pro switches deliver a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter typing experience with a clacky sound (Gold Pink) or a snappier sound with smooth actuation (V3 Piano Pro).
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