TTC Gold Silver vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro stand out as excellent options, each offering unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Gold Silver switch is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, providing a sense of closure with each keystroke due to its shortened travel distance and solid bottom-out. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch boasts a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, contributing to a delightful typing experience for enthusiasts. While the Gold Silver emphasizes speed, sound, and fluidity, the Lavender Purple V3 excels in providing a bouncy and polished typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This feature allows for a visually appealing experience when using the switches with lighting effects. Both switches will provide similar sound profiles and aesthetics due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
In contrast, the Gold Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro also features the same material for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the typing experience on each switch, with the Gold Silver providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches will still offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
When considering the overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The softer nature of the nylon bottom housing will result in a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys. Conversely, the impact of the top housing material will be more prominent when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced upon key release. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon materials in the housing of each switch will create a unique typing experience with distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, both have an actuation force of 45 grams, which means that in terms of triggering a keystroke, they offer a similar experience. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Gold Silver has an unknown bottom out force, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a slightly heavier option. Weight is a crucial factor to consider, as a lighter switch like the Gold Silver can be preferable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. In contrast, a heavier switch like the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The Gold Silver is slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Gold Silver, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver for $2.90.
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple 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
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch is renowned for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. This switch offers a neutral sound signature that is suitable for various environments and preferences. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a higher-pitched sound profile that contributes to a delightful typing experience. The sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, this switch offers a mild and subtle feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is described as accented and bouncy, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. The switch also offers a snappy response, giving a lively feel to each keystroke.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing rapid responsiveness with a smooth and precise keystroke, accompanied by a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers a delightful typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a smooth key travel, and a resonant sound signature, the Gold Silver may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump, a higher-pitched sound profile, and a bouncy typing experience, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs.