TTC Gold Red vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red is characterized by its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance, providing a subtle and polished sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is designed with gamers in mind, offering effortless keystrokes, pleasing bassy sound, and features such as light actuation force and shortened travel distance. While the Gold Red may appeal to those looking for a more neutral and subdued typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro caters to individuals prioritizing speed and responsiveness. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. The similarities in top housing material imply that users can expect comparable sound and aesthetic results from both switches.
However, a point of differentiation between the two switches lies in the bottom housing material. The Gold Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar sound profile that is rounder and duller compared to switches with harder bottom housings. This similarity in bottom housing material showcases a shared commitment to enhancing the typing experience through the use of softer plastics.
Ultimately, the split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. 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 pressing a key. By understanding the qualities each housing material brings to the switch, users can make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback in their keyboard.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, both switches have relatively light actuation forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red switch requires 50 grams of force, while the V3 Silver Pro switch requires 45 grams. This means that the Gold Red switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force than the V3 Silver Pro switch. Overall, both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience with a light touch, but the Gold Red switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and responsiveness from both switches, given their comparable actuation forces and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Gold Red's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to users seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 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 Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich typing experience that is pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp tone with each keystroke, which may appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, including factors such as the choice of keycaps and board material.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, and polished, providing a buttery and effortless typing feel with a light actuation force and reduced finger fatigue. Both switches excel in delivering a comfortable typing experience, with the Gold Red focusing more on a middle-ground approachable feel, while the V3 Silver Pro prioritizes a responsive and low-impact typing sensation, ideal for gaming and extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics tailored to different preferences and use cases, they both excel in providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Whether you prioritize a rich and deep sound profile or a sharp and crisp tone, or if you prefer a more gentle and subtle typing feel compared to a creamy and feathery sensation, both switches offer quality performance that will enhance your overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences, typing styles, and specific needs, but rest assured that you will achieve similar high-quality results with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the TTC Gold Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for switches specifically engineered for gaming with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences and intended use for the keyboard switches.
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