Gateron CJ vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, enthusiasts are presented with two unique options to consider. The CJ is praised for its smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, providing a pleasant typing experience categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is known for its satisfying tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile, offering enthusiasts a delightful typing experience categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. While these general descriptions give a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, diving deeper into their specific characteristics can help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a thin, high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. While both materials produce a distinct sound, the CJ leans towards a higher-pitched tone while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a clearer, resonant sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Gateron CJ incorporates POM material that produces a deeper, more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. The differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches contribute to their unique tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles and typing experiences. While the CJ's top housing leans towards a high-pitched and clacky sound, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper tone. Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to their overall sound profiles, with the CJ's POM material providing a muted sound and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon material producing a fuller and deeper sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique qualities that enhance typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 45 grams, making the CJ a bit more resistant to accidental keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams, making the V3 slightly lighter in this regard. This means that while the CJ may provide a more substantial typing experience due to the higher bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be more comfortable for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a balanced typing experience for most users.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the CJ. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the slight difference may impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Gamers may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the CJ with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and neutral profile, emitting a higher-pitched sound that is distinct and unique. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch's sound profile is not provided, so it may vary depending on other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used. In terms of feel, the CJ switch is described as mild, offering a gentler typing experience suitable for most users. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished tactile sensation, providing a balance of tactility and responsiveness.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch provides a smooth and unique sound accompanied by a mild typing experience, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch delivers a more tactile and responsive feel with potential for a variety of sensations. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different typing styles and preferences. Regardless of the choice between these switches, users can expect a satisfying experience tailored to their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a unique and smooth linear typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron CJ switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams and appreciate a tactile bump with a higher-pitched sound profile for a delightful typing experience, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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