TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The Gold Red Pro is lauded for its versatility and ease of press, making it suitable for various tasks such as gaming, office work, or casual typing. Its neutral sound signature and adaptability make it a well-rounded option for anyone seeking a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Matcha Green Pro switches stand out for their smooth and substantial feel, delivering a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and tactile feedback that appeals to both typists and gamers. While the Gold Red Pro is described as polished, thocky, low-pitched, silky, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Matcha Green Pro is characterized as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky. 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
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users who appreciate a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to both keyboards.
However, when it comes to the nylon bottom housing, the Gold Red Pro and the V3 Matcha Green Pro offer different experiences. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing also offers a similar typing experience, creating a duller and rounder sound that adds a unique touch to the overall sound profile.
Overall, while both keyboards share the same top housing material, the difference in the bottom housing of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro results in varying typing experiences. The split qualities of the different housing materials impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys differently, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in this aspect. However, the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key remains consistent between the two keyboards, maintaining a similar sound profile in that regard.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro, which has a higher actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Gold Red Pro may be the better choice. In contrast, individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel for a more tactile typing experience may prefer the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, users will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom of the switch. With both switches having identical travel distances, users can expect consistent and comparable results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Whether typing on a keyboard equipped with the Gold Red Pro or the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch, users can enjoy the same level of tactile feedback and key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch showcases a neutral and low-pitched profile, offering a satisfying thocky sound that strikes a balance between deep thuds and soft knocks, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch produces a clacky and resonant sound, delivering sharp and bright percussive tones that resonate clearly. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the Gold Red Pro leans towards a more versatile and moderate sound, whereas the Matcha Green Pro brings a sharper and immersive tone, perfect for those seeking a pronounced auditory feedback during typing or gaming sessions.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro offers a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel that minimizes friction and enhances the overall typing flow. Its gentle and approachable characteristics cater to a wide range of users, ensuring a comfortable typing session. Conversely, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, giving users a spring-like feedback with buttery smoothness and reduced resistance. This lively and smooth sensation adds a layer of responsiveness and comfort to keystrokes, making for an enjoyable typing or gaming experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel between the TTC Gold Red Pro and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches, it's evident that they offer unique advantages based on individual preferences. While the Gold Red Pro excels in versatility with its neutral sound and gentle typing feel, the Matcha Green Pro stands out with its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy key response. Both switches provide distinct characteristics that cater to different user tastes, ensuring that regardless of choice, users can expect a satisfying experience tailored to their specific needs. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether one prefers a more versatile and moderate typing experience or a sharper, more tactile feedback during their keyboard use.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize versatility, ease of press, and a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and substantial keystroke with tactile feedback, the Matcha Green Pro switches may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider how you value sound, feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision.
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