TTC Gold Red vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, we see two different linear switches that offer unique characteristics for typing enthusiasts. The Gold Red linear switches are favored for their buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance, providing a modest touch of personality with their snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches are known for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
The TTC Gold Red and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Gold Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer different sound profiles, they both excel in providing a distinct typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Gold Red and the V3 Piano Pro feature nylon materials. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on these switches a more satisfying experience. The softer nature of nylon allows for a duller and rounder sound, which can be preferred by typists who enjoy a quieter typing environment. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the switches may still offer slightly different sound profiles due to other factors such as stem design and spring weight.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. While the Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper sound profile, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a quieter typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a deeper one, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Gold Red provides a lighter touch, which is ideal for those who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, while the V3 Piano Pro offers a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide similar actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect comparable results in terms of typing efficiency and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keystroke feel and weight.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Gold Red has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Red being on the longer end and the V3 Piano Pro being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red 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
The TTC Gold Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound, giving each keystroke a sharp and immersive quality. While the Gold Red switch has a more neutral sound, suitable for various settings, the Piano Pro switch is characterized by a lively and crisp sound that stands out.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gold Red is described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and tactile satisfaction during typing, ensuring a pleasant user experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Red provides a more moderate and neutral typing experience, the Piano Pro switch adds a lively and crisp touch to each keystroke. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches deliver a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users can find a switch that meets their specific needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red linear switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, you should keep in mind the differences in their bottom out forces and sound profiles. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile along with a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing feel, then the Gold Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, resonant sound profile along with a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing feel, then the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience you are looking for and the sound profile that best suits your preferences.
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