TTC Bluish White vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. The Bluish White switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched', while the V3 Crystal Pro switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished'. Each switch caters to different preferences - the Bluish White for those who enjoy tactile feedback, and the V3 Crystal Pro for those who prefer a smoother linear feel. 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
42g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the keyboards. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Bluish White using nylon and the V3 Crystal Pro utilizing polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Bluish White provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, the impact of each housing material on the overall sound and feel of the switches is notable. The nylon bottom housing of the Bluish White absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out a key, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro enhances the clarity and sharpness of the sound profile. When it comes to typing experience, the choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall feel of the switches. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housings ensures a balanced and nuanced typing experience for users of both switches.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Bluish White and Akko V3 Crystal Pro share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profiles and typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Bluish White offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro provides a clearer and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials contribute to the unique characteristics of each switch, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch with an actuation force of 48 grams, making the Bluish White easier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Bluish White requires a heavier force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing experience with the Crystal Pro. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may opt for the Bluish White, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches offers users the flexibility to choose based on their personal preferences for typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, we can see that the Bluish White has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the V3 Crystal Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but for those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Bluish White may be the better option. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, both switches provide a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so selecting the best one will depend on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
The Akko V3 Crystal 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 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 TTC Bluish White switch offers a low-pitched tone with a bass-heavy and mellow quality, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a chirpy sound signature with a unique squeak to them. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference and setup. The sound of the switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bluish White is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle and approachable typing feel. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy and polished, providing a lively and rebounding sensation with a smooth and sleek typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile characteristics that can cater to varying typing styles and preferences.
Overall, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that can enhance the typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a low-pitched, buttery typing experience or a chirpy, bouncy sensation, both switches provide distinct characteristics that can suit different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Bluish White tactile switch or the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking. If you enjoy a light typing feel with a snappy sound profile and a low-pitched switch, then the Bluish White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a bright and chirpy sound signature, and a silky smooth typing experience with a bouncy feel, then the V3 Crystal Pro could be the switch for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your own typing style and sound preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, the best choice is the one that feels the most comfortable and satisfying to you.
Mentioned in this article
