Gateron CM vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offer distinct experiences for users. The CM, a linear switch, stands out for its full nylon housing and smooth typing journey, complete with a rich and deep sound signature. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, provides a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound profile, paired with a satisfying level of smoothness. Each switch has its own set of characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, it is clear that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that typing on either switch will result in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. The duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon bottom housing will be a common feature in both switches, allowing for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Gateron CM uses nylon while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the CM. This difference in top housing material will result in a noticeable variation in sound when pressing and releasing keys, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro offering a clearer and resonant sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate.
Overall, the choice of top housing material in a switch plays a significant role in the sound produced during typing, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound while polycarbonate provides a sharper and crisper sound. While both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, the use of different materials for the top housing results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and resonant sound will ultimately determine which switch is more suitable for their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the lighter option. The CM switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the V3 Cream Blue Pro make it a preferred choice for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier forces of the CM switch provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience desired by the user.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron CM linear switch. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Gateron CM linear switch with its longer travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
The Akko V3 Cream Blue 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 Blue 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 CM linear switch is best known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is described as having a distinct poppy and clacky sound, providing a lively and audible feedback that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the CM providing a deeper and richer sound experience, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro delivers a more vibrant and tactile sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, thanks to its factory-lubed full nylon housing and dual-staged spring design. Typing on CM switches provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with reduced friction and effortless key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet provides a prominent amount of tactility. These switches provide a spring-like and responsive typing experience, with a lively feel and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that appeal to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the CM switches excel in providing a deeper and richer sound profile with a buttery and frictionless typing experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches standout for their lively and tactile sound feedback, combined with a bouncy and snappy typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound depth and tactility, both switches offer a premium typing experience that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile with a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing feel, then the Gateron CM linear switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-light bottom out force and appreciate a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile with an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing feel, then the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics that align with your typing style and preferences to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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