Gateron CM vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, both linear switches but with distinct qualities. The CM switches boast a unique full nylon housing, creating a rich and deep sound signature. Their impeccable factory lube job ensures a smooth typing journey, while the lengthened, dual-staged spring offers a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switches stand out with their fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature and a silky smooth typing experience. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics, but 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
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics that influence the sound profile of the switches. The CM's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer composition that leads to clearer and more resonant sound. While both materials contribute to creating distinct auditory experiences, the nylon in the CM offers a more muffled sound compared to the clear and precise sound produced by the polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro.
Despite the differences in sound profile, both the Gateron CM and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro utilize their housing materials effectively to enhance the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing in the CM and the polycarbonate bottom housing in the V3 Crystal Pro play a crucial role in impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. The softer nylon in the CM provides a deeper and fuller sensation when pressing down the keys, whereas the stiffer polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro offers a sharper and crisper tactile feedback. This demonstrates how the bottom housing material can significantly influence the overall typing experience by affecting the keypress sensation and sound produced during typing.
In instances where the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the key. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more prominently during the keypress, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This highlights the importance of the housing materials in contributing to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch, demonstrating how the choice of material can significantly impact the typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the CM at 63.5 grams and the V3 Crystal Pro at 60 grams. The CM switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force, which some users may prefer for added feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a lighter actuation force, making it ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on the user's preference for actuation force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, we can see that the CM has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The CM's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances are favored in gaming keyboards. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for 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 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 often described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its chirpy sound, which includes a unique squeak that sets it apart from other switches. When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM switch is characterized as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch is known for its bouncy and polished feel, offering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the subjective qualities of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer unique experiences in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch excels in providing a deeper and richer sound signature with a bouncy typing experience, while also delivering a buttery and frictionless typing sensation. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch stands out with its bright and chirpy sound profile and bouncy feel, along with a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a bassy and thocky sound profile, and a buttery, polished typing experience, the Gateron CM switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a chirpy sound profile, and a bouncy, polished typing experience, then the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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