Gateron CJ vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro both offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron CJ is praised for its high-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, providing a unique take on linear switches. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro stands out for its budget-friendly price point and offers a poppy, clacky sound paired with a creamy tactile feel. While the Gateron CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Thocky', the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is described as 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', '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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and high-pitched but not overly sharp sound. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound due to the material's stiffness. While both materials offer a clear and resonant sound, the CJ's top housing may provide a slightly clackier sound compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the CJ features a POM bottom housing that produces a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro uses a nylon bottom housing which elicits a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer material absorbing more sound. The CJ's POM housing may offer a more muted sound compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon housing, which creates a rounder and duller sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer a variety of sounds to cater to different preferences.
It is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings will impact different aspects of the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. While the Gateron CJ and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro may have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that can cater to users looking for a specific type of typing experience.
Weight
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch have the same actuation force and bottom out force, with a light actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required for both switches. The medium weight of these switches makes them suitable for a wide range of users, offering a balance between comfort and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use or a heavier push feel for more substantial typing, both switches provide a reliable option for various typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to other factors such as sound, smoothness, or design, as their force requirements are the same.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has the shorter travel distance compared to the CJ. Those who prefer a faster response time may opt for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the CJ's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deep pressing sensation for those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy sound profile, offering a unique and slightly squeaky acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch provides a poppy, clacky sound that is ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience. While the CJ leans towards a higher-pitched clack, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a decent smoothness coupled with a satisfying click, catering to different preferences in sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CJ is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone suitable for most users. Conversely, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for being easy-to-press, featuring gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended sessions, making it an excellent choice for prolonged use. Additionally, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a feathery and bouncy feel, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience that is comfortable for various typing tasks.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ provides a chirpy sound and a mild typing feel, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro delivers a poppy, clacky sound and an easy-to-press, feathery feel. Both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, but with differences that cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a unique and enjoyable higher-pitched clack with an impossibly smooth push feel, then the CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and a decent smoothness, ideal for those who prefer a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel, then the V3 Cream Yellow Pro could be the switch for you. Consider your typing style and the overall typing experience you are seeking before making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique attributes that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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