Gateron Aliaz vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself considering the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, a linear switch. The Aliaz switches are perfect for quiet environments like the office due to their silent design and medium-heavy weight, offering a substantial feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are ideal for budget-conscious enthusiasts, providing a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smoothness. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether it be a pronounced typing feedback without noise or a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Aliaz and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing adds a level of clarity and resonance to the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing materials.
While the Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing to enhance the overall sound profile and feel of the switch, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro opts for a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material used in the V3 Cream Yellow Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Additionally, the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a more muted and rounder sound when typing on the switches. This difference in bottom housing material between the two switches can have a noticeable impact on the overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp and crisp sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the Aliaz's bottom housing enhances the overall sound profile, while the nylon material in the V3 Cream Yellow Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the typing experience can help enthusiasts make an informed decision when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, we see that the Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. The Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or intense gaming sessions. Both switches prioritize different preferences, with the Aliaz catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel, and the V3 Cream Yellow Pro appealing to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, users will achieve similar results with either switch based on their individual weight preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Aliaz has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Cream Yellow Pro's 3.3 mm. The Aliaz offers a more traditional and deeper travel distance, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow Pro provides a shallower travel distance, catering to individuals who prioritize quick responsiveness, such as gamers. Both switches have their advantages, with the Aliaz offering a more tactile typing experience while the Cream Yellow Pro provides a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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
Overall, when comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, they each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz is best suited for quiet environments, providing a medium-heavy weight for a substantial typing feel with a muted sound. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth feel, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience. While the Aliaz offers a silky and polished typing feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. In conclusion, those looking for a quiet and substantial typing experience may prefer the Aliaz, while those who enjoy a lively auditory experience and smooth typing feel may lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and typing needs. If you value a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy key press and a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Aliaz switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly switch that offers a poppy, clacky sound, easy-to-press keys, and a smoother typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is the better option for you. Both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to consider what matters most to you in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience before making your decision. Ultimately, choosing the right switch will greatly enhance your typing enjoyment and productivity.
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