Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Silent Brown both offer a tactile typing experience that can enhance your overall productivity and enjoyment. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is praised for its higher-pitched sound profile and bouncy, snappy feel, creating a satisfying tactile bump during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches provide a more subdued typing experience with a muted sound profile and a comfortable, rounded tactile bump. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Silent Brown switches are ideal for users looking for a quieter 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Silent Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the lighting to shine through. However, despite these similarities, the two switches differ in their bottom housing material. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is more rounded and dull compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the Silent Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, leading to similar sound characteristics as the V3 Lavender Purple Pro.
While the top housings of both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Silent Brown are made of polycarbonate, which contributes to their sharper and crisper sound profile, the differences in their bottom housings result in variations in sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the duller and rounder sound produced by the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing. This difference in material highlights how the bottom housing can impact the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, both switches provide unique typing experiences based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
In conclusion, while both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Silent Brown share polycarbonate top housings that contribute to their sharp and resonant sound profiles, their distinct nylon bottom housings result in differences in sound characteristics. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing produces a rounder and duller sound. These variations in sound quality showcase how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the switch's sound profile and feel. Despite these differences, both switches provide users with unique options for customizing their mechanical keyboards based on their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the actuation force is the same at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force differs, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro requiring 55 grams and the TTC Silent Brown needing 63.5 grams. This makes the V3 Lavender Purple Pro lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the TTC Silent Brown is heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to type for longer periods, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the TTC Silent Brown due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the actuation force plays a key role in determining the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the amount of pressure required to press the key all the way down.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.8mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that the typing experience will be consistent regardless of which switch is used. Users can expect a similar feel and response from both switches when typing, making them both reliable options for those who prefer a tactile typing experience.
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 Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a higher-pitched profile that adds a unique touch to typing sessions. In comparison, the Silent Brown switches have a muted sound profile, providing a quieter experience for those who prefer a more discreet typing environment. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro being more vibrant and the Silent Brown being more understated.
In terms of feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches provide a bouncy and snappy typing experience with an accented tactile bump that falls between subtle and overwhelming. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches offer a buttery and mild typing sensation, making them suitable for users who prefer a smoother and gentler keystroke. Both switches are polished, ensuring a refined and smooth key travel experience that minimizes friction. Overall, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro leans towards a lively and responsive feel, while the Silent Brown focuses on a seamless and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and TTC Silent Brown switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched sound with a bouncy and snappy feel or a muted sound with a buttery and mild typing sensation, both switches cater to different preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and whether you prioritize a vibrant typing experience or a quieter and smoother one. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a polished typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter key press and a higher-pitched sound with a satisfying tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier key press and a quieter, muted sound profile with a rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown switches would be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound in order to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
