TTC Gold Pink vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a linear switch like the TTC Gold Pink and a tactile switch like the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro can make a significant difference in your typing experience. The Gold Pink stands out for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, providing a fast and effortless typing experience perfect for rapid typists or gamers. With a satisfying clacky sound and categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Gold Pink offers a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a delightful combination of features for keyboard enthusiasts, including a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump that enhances the overall typing experience. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a different kind of tactile feedback. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other housing materials. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are designed to utilize RGB lighting. So, in terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches offer similar qualities with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the TTC Gold Pink uses nylon while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro also utilizes nylon. Nylon bottom housings are known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, resulting in a more muted and satisfying typing sound.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro are split between the bottom and top of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing material will be felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches provide a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with their combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Gold Pink is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. While the Gold Pink offers a lighter typing experience, suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a slightly stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the slight difference in force may cater to different preferences when it comes to typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Gold Pink being the longer of the two. In terms of preference, those who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper keypress experience may find the 4 mm travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink more satisfying. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience, so choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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.
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 Gold Pink linear switch is known for a clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a higher-pitched sound profile, contributing to an overall delightful typing experience. Please note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gold Pink offers a buttery typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke. Additionally, it is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a light and comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile feedback with a lively feel and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Gold Pink linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Gold Pink is best suited for those who prefer a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Lavender Purple Pro is ideal for keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so ultimately the choice between the two will depend on the individual's typing style and personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Pink linear switch or the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and effortless typing experience with a clacky sound and minimal feedback, the Gold Pink switches with their 45g bottom out force might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches with their 55g bottom out force could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and lightness or feedback and tactility in your typing experience.
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