Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is lauded for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, providing a 'snappy', 'creamy', and 'polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for being a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality, producing a distinctive poppy and clacky sound with remarkable smoothness, categorized as 'creamy', 'high-pitched', 'bouncy', 'snappy', and 'polished'. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that resonates well, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, these two switches are quite similar due to their shared top housing material. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures that users will experience a consistent sound profile when typing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and less sharp sound when typing on switches that use this material. In contrast, the V3 Cream Black Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound characteristics. Both switches benefit from the properties of nylon in their bottom housings, creating a more subdued and muffled sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro are the same, their bottom housing materials provide different sound profiles when typing. The switches showcase how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience, with polycarbonate delivering a sharper sound and nylon creating a deeper, fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique tactile and auditory experience that caters to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, we can see that both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equal in that aspect. However, the CAP Anniversary has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the CAP Anniversary may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the V3 Cream Black Pro may be more suitable for users who prefer a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option when compared to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The CAP Anniversary offers a more traditional travel distance, while the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a shallower feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Black Pro, while those seeking a more substantial key press may lean towards the CAP Anniversary. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so ultimately the choice comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 CAP Anniversary switch offers a unique, smooth typing experience without much information provided on the specific sound attributes. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch is known for its high-pitched and poppy sound profile, which can be crisp and sharp when pressed, providing a distinct auditory feedback that complements its smoothness. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a stable and smooth typing experience with minimal wobble. The V3 Cream Black Pro switch shares similarities with creamy and polished attributes, offering buttery smooth typing sensation with reduced friction and a refined finish. Additionally, it is characterized as bouncy and snappy, providing a lively and responsive typing experience with rebound feedback when keys are pressed. Both switches offer a premium feel that enhances the overall tactile feedback during typing sessions.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switch focuses on smoothness and stability, while the V3 Cream Black Pro switch prioritizes a high-pitched sound profile and a buttery smooth feel with bouncy feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either of these switches, as they both prioritize quality and performance in their design.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prioritize exceptional smoothness and stability in your typing experience, the CAP Anniversary with its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for budget-friendly switches that deliver a unique poppy and clacky sound along with a smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are a solid option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
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