Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, with the Akko V3 Piano Pro and TTC Yunhai linear switches being two compelling contenders. The V3 Piano Pro is celebrated for its lively and crisp sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a delightful auditory and tactile experience—ideal for those who appreciate a more dynamic typing environment. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai offers a deep, rounded sound profile combined with an incredibly light actuation force, making it well-suited for typists who favor a gentle and effortless feel while typing long passages. While the V3 Piano Pro leans towards a more engaging and pronounced auditory feedback, the Yunhai epitomizes comfort and ease in use, showcasing two distinct philosophies in linear switch design. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the TTC Yunhai feature nylon as their primary housing material, encompassing both the top and bottom housings. This commonality in materials means that users can expect a similar sound profile and typing experience from both switches. Nylon is known for its relatively softer nature compared to harder plastics; this softness allows the material to absorb sound, leading to a deeper and fuller audio output. Consequently, users will likely experience a duller and rounder sound signature as they type, which can enhance the overall tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction.
While both switches utilize nylon for their housings, the interaction between the top and bottom housings can further influence the overall typing experience. With both the V3 Piano Pro and the Yunhai sharing identical material compositions, they will emit similar acoustic characteristics in both the bottom-out sound and the release sound. The cushioning effect provided by the nylon materials, in both cases, contributes to a muted key press while also enhancing the tactile response. Both switches, therefore, deliver a consistent sound environment whether one is pressing down on the key or releasing it, reinforcing the importance of the materials used.
Overall, since both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the TTC Yunhai are crafted from nylon for their top and bottom housings, users can expect a comparable functionality and auditory experience. If either switch were to incorporate different materials in their housings, the distinctive qualities of each would emerge, affecting sound profiles and feel on different sections of the key press. However, in this case of identical materials, the result is a harmonized typing feel that achieves consistency in auditory output, allowing users to appreciate the refined properties of nylon in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we can see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Piano Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Yunhai linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to press down. This difference means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch will likely favor the TTC Yunhai for extended use without fatigue. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel might lean towards the Akko V3 Piano Pro, which offers a stronger and more tactile push during typing. While both are designed for a smooth experience, the Akko switch's heavier actuation and bottom out forces cater to users seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The V3 Piano Pro has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Yunhai extends slightly further with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that if you prioritize quicker response times and a more responsive feel, the V3 Piano Pro may be more appealing. Conversely, the Yunhai’s longer travel distance could appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress, providing a deeper tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice might reflect your preference for either responsiveness or depth in typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 Piano Pro linear switch emits a lively, clacky, and resonant profile, characterized by a sharp and bright tone that captures attention with each keystroke. This snappy sound signature is not only crisp but also brings an immersive auditory experience, allowing users to enjoy the aural feedback while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switch's sound qualities are less defined, leaving its exact tonal characteristics unknown. However, it's important to note that sound can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, which means both switches can still deliver engaging auditory experiences depending on setup.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Piano Pro stands out with its combination of bounciness, creaminess, polished smoothness, and a silky sensation that results in a dynamic yet refined typing experience. Each keystroke feels springy and elastic, providing delightful feedback that enhances the overall typing flow. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai's tactile qualities remain unspecified, making it difficult to directly compare the feel of the two switches. Nevertheless, newcomers can appreciate that the V3 Piano Pro offers a notably satisfying tactile experience, which may appeal to those looking for a rich connection with their keyboard.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a distinctly engaging sound profile and an exceptionally smooth and bouncy feel, the TTC Yunhai leaves some uncertainty regarding its auditory and tactile output. For newcomers venturing into the world of mechanical keyboards, the V3 Piano Pro offers a well-rounded option with a blend of auditory pleasure and a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, each switch brings its own traits to the table, and an exploration of different options is encouraged, as personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the ideal switch for an individual’s typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more engaging, lively auditory experience with each keystroke and prefer a medium-light bottom-out force, the V3 Piano Pro is an excellent choice. Its distinct clacky sound profile, combined with a bouncy and silky feel, makes it ideal for both typing and gaming, as it provides a responsive and satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, if you favor a softer touch with a light actuation force and seek a unique, rounded sound profile, the Yunhai switches will serve you well. With their effortless stroke and deep sound, they cater to those who prioritize comfort and a gentle typing experience, making them perfect for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In essence, your decision should align with whether you prioritize auditory feedback and a snappy feel or a lighter, more subdued typing experience.
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