TTC Iron vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to explore are the TTC Iron and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, both of which are linear switches. The TTC Iron is favored for its distinctive clacky sound signature, providing an added auditory satisfaction with each key press. With its light actuation and smooth travel, this switch caters to precision typists and daily users alike. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes and a pleasing bassy sound. Its light actuation force and shortened travel distance make it ideal for situations where speed is crucial. While both switches are easy to press, the TTC Iron leans towards a mild and neutral feel, whereas the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a creamier and feathery touch. 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
41g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Iron and Akko V3 Silver Pro have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Iron's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The POM material in the Iron's bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Silver Pro produces a fuller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide pleasing and unique sound experiences due to their respective housing materials.
The use of POM in the Iron's housing results in a more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the V3 Silver Pro produces a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making it a preferred option for those looking to customize their keyboard's appearance. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Silver Pro absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder typing experience compared to the deeper sound produced by the POM bottom housing of the Iron. These differences in sound profiles highlight the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound profile of the switches, it becomes apparent that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, each contributing to a unique typing experience. Despite these differences in housing materials, both the TTC Iron and Akko V3 Silver Pro offer satisfying sound profiles that cater to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Iron requires 50 grams while the Silver Pro only needs 45 grams, making the Akko V3 Silver Pro the lighter option in this aspect. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, which may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the TTC Iron switch due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Iron switch has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the V3 Silver Pro's shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Iron switch provides a slightly deeper key press experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking faster input speeds. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of key press feel, with the Iron switch offering a more pronounced keystroke and the V3 Silver Pro providing a swifter response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch is described as producing a clacky noise that is sharp and snappy, adding a distinct crispness to each keystroke. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is noted for its high-pitched sound profile, delivering a sharp and crisp tone with each press. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Iron leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound, while the V3 Silver Pro offers a higher-pitched sound for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the sound profile preference will depend on individual tastes and the overall keyboard setup, including the board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys and offering a smooth and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch boasts a creamy and feathery feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a reduced actuation force for effortless keystrokes. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro switch is described as polished and silky, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance during key presses. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing experience, with the Iron focusing on ease of pressing and the V3 Silver Pro emphasizing smoothness and reduced friction.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iron provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the V3 Silver Pro delivers a high-pitched sound and a creamy, feathery, polished, and silky feel for a smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, both switches cater to different needs and preferences for enthusiasts and gamers alike. Whether opting for the pronounced clacky sound of the Iron or the smooth and buttery feel of the V3 Silver Pro, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Iron linear switch or the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you value a pronounced clacky sound signature and a buttery smooth travel, the TTC Iron switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for switches engineered for speed with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch could be ideal. Both switches offer a light bottom out force, but the Iron focuses on precision and pleasure in each keystroke, while the V3 Silver Pro prioritizes speed and efficiency. Consider your typing style, gaming needs, and sound preferences when making your decision between these two excellent linear switches.
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