Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Neptune are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch that features a satisfying tactile bump and a higher-pitched sound profile, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy a bouncy and snappy typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune is a linear switch that boasts an innovative internal structure, providing a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. The Neptune's ultralight design ensures swift and effortless typing, while its muted sound signature maintains a refined auditory ambiance. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that make them attractive options for 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
45g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Neptune, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This means that both switches will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's top housing is described as creating a more resonant sound due to polycarbonate's stiffness, while the Neptune's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profile may appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to the switch. This is attributed to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Neptune utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both switches share similar qualities in their top housings, the difference in bottom housing material may lead to noticeable variations in the overall sound and feel of typing on each keyboard.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the typing experience. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Neptune share similarities in their top housing material of polycarbonate, the differences in their bottom housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate lead to distinct sound profiles. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties, while the Neptune provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Keyboard enthusiasts may prefer one switch over the other based on their sound preferences and typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams, making it slightly easier to type on the Neptune. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro requires 55 grams of force while the Neptune only requires 50 grams, making the Neptune a lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Neptune, while those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. In both cases, users can expect a comfortable typing experience that suits their individual preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.8mm, providing a consistent typing experience for users. When comparing the two switches, it is clear that they both offer the same level of key travel, ensuring similar feedback and comfort when typing. The identical travel distance of these switches means that users can expect similar results in terms of key press depth, making them equally suitable options for those seeking a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their 3.8mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is best described as having a higher-pitched sound profile, providing a more crisp and distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a low-pitched and muted sound signature, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone while remaining unobtrusive. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used, but these descriptions give a good idea of the subjective differences between the two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is often described as having an accented and bouncy tactile feel, providing a satisfying amount of tactility without being too overwhelming. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery and frictionless typing experience, with a smooth and effortless keystroke that minimizes any sense of resistance. Both switches are noted for their polished finishes, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience that is enhanced by reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch and the TTC Neptune switch offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile and a more bouncy and accented tactile feel, the Neptune switch delivers a low-pitched and muted sound along with a buttery and frictionless typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between these switches to achieve a delightful and satisfying typing experience tailored to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer quality characteristics that ensure a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and seek a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance similar to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls, along with a muted sound signature for a refined typing experience, the TTC Neptune linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preference for sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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