TTC Gold Silver vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver, a linear switch, to the Akko V3 Silver Pro, another linear switch, distinct differences become apparent. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and precise bottom-out, offering a satisfying closure with every key press. Its smooth journey from initial press to bottoming out creates a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are tailored for gamers, providing effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound. These switches boast a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, ideal for scenarios where speed is paramount. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the TTC Gold Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro use polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The clarity and resonance of the sound are enhanced due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gold Silver utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro also uses nylon for the bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. Despite this difference in bottom housing material, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housings.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Gold Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Gold Silver utilizes nylon for a deeper sound profile, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro follows suit with its own nylon bottom housing. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom ensures that each switch offers a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch with 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Silver switch is not specified, while the V3 Silver Pro switch has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the V3 Silver Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a firmer push might opt for the Gold Silver switch for a more substantial typing feel. Despite the differences in actuation and bottom out forces, both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience with similar results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Gold Silver has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Silver Pro. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for quick and responsive typing or gaming experiences. Gamers, in particular, tend to appreciate the shorter travel distance as it allows for faster response times. However, if you prefer a more substantial keypress feel, you may lean towards the Gold Silver switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 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
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp tone that may appeal to those who prefer a brighter sound profile. When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is easy-to-press and creamy, offering a low-impact typing feel with buttery smoothness that enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Silver and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and usage scenarios. If you are seeking a switch with a thocky, low-pitched sound and a polished, silky feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is an excellent choice. Conversely, if you prefer a high-pitched sound and a creamy, easy-to-press feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch would be more suitable. Regardless of your choice, both switches provide rapid responsiveness and smooth keystrokes, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users. Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in a satisfying sound and feel that align with your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, you should consider your priorities. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a resonant sound, the TTC Gold Silver switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for effortless keystrokes, a light actuation force, and a pleasing bassy sound, then the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is the better choice for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs, so ultimately, the decision comes down to what features are most important to you in your typing or gaming experience.
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