Gateron Beer vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer 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, the Gateron Beer and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offer unique qualities to cater to different preferences. The Gateron Beer, with its translucent green design inspired by Tsingtao beer bottles, is a tactile switch that provides a refreshingly lightweight and stepped tactility. Known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, this switch is perfect for those looking for an easy-to-press and unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is budget-friendly and offers a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth and creamy tactile feel. With a range of features including being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, this switch is ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize a vibrant auditory experience and smooth keypresses. 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
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Beer and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to their sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Beer utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing materials can greatly impact the overall feel and sound of typing on these switches.
In summary, while both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housings for a more defined sound profile and aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting, their choice of bottom housing materials sets them apart. The Gateron Beer's consistent use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings results in a more uniform typing experience, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro's incorporation of nylon in the bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is heavier. The Beer requires an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for users seeking a stronger typing experience. Both switches offer distinct weight variations, catering to different preferences in typing feel. For those looking for similar results in actuation and bottom out forces, opting for switches with matching weight specifications would be the way to go. Weight considerations are crucial as they can enhance typing efficiency and overall typing experience based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Beer tactile switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, providing a balance between responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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
The Gateron Beer tactile switch is renowned for its distinctive and clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a more poppy and clacky sound right out of the box, catering to those who enjoy a vibrant auditory feedback. When it comes to feel, the Beer switch is easy-to-press with a stepped tactility, providing a gentle and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch offers an easy-to-press feel that is described as feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, ensuring a comfortable and smooth typing sensation.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, both offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. The Beer switch provides a light and easy-to-press feel with a distinct clacky sound, appealing to those who prefer a subtle tactile feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch offers a smooth and feathery feel with a lively and polished sound profile, making it a budget-friendly option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, but rest assured that both will deliver quality performance for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique stepped tactility with a characteristic clacky sound, the Gateron Beer switch is the way to go. It offers an easy-to-press feel with a refreshing typing experience that is not only light but also responsive. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium bottom out force and enjoy a poppy, clacky sound combined with a smooth feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch might be more to your liking. It provides an easy-to-press sensation while incorporating feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished characteristics for a comfortable and lively typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
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