Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, there are key differences to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is renowned for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, offering a smooth and unique poppy sound upon each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. While the Akko switch leans towards a higher-pitched and bouncy typing experience, the Gateron switch offers a more subdued and silky feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black present some notable differences in terms of sound profiles. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a higher-pitched sound that is especially well-suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing that offers a more pointed and clacky sound profile. While still high-pitched, the sound is described as not overly sharp, providing a satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the distinctions between the two keyboards become more pronounced. The V3 Cream Black Pro boasts a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound, attributed to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This creates a rounder and duller sound profile, contrasting with the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black. Gateron's POM housing is known for producing a unique and pleasing sound on the deeper end of the spectrum, with a more muted quality compared to nylon. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute significantly to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each keyboard.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the keyboard. While the V3 Cream Black Pro and the G Pro 3.0 Black offer contrasting housing materials, each brings its own set of qualities to the table. Whether it's the sharp and resonant sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the specific materials used in the construction of these keyboards. Despite their differences, both keyboards aim to provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to the preferences of individual users.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, which has an actuation force of 60 grams. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the V3 Cream Black Pro at 65 grams and the G Pro 3.0 Black at 70 grams. This means that while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro requires less force to register a keystroke, both switches will provide a substantial typing experience due to their heavier bottom out forces. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force for prolonged typing sessions or a stronger push feel for a more solid typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference of 0.7 mm between the two switches may not seem like much, but it can impact the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, especially gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black may provide a more satisfying and tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper press when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience that may appeal to those who prefer a more distinct sound when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch presents a clacky sound, characterized by its sharp and snappy nature. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black's sound signature can be described as subdued, offering a more dampened sound compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Turning to feel, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches provide a creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This indicates a refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the V3 Cream Black Pro switch is also described as bouncy and snappy, providing a lively feedback sensation and super responsiveness, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch adds a silky feel to the mix, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a subtle typing feel with gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is desired.
Taking all available information into consideration, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches offer a high-quality linear switch experience at budget-friendly price points. Each switch has its unique sound and feel characteristics, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a high-pitched and snappy sound with a bouncy and snappy feel like the V3 Cream Black Pro or a clacky sound with a silky and subtle feel like the G Pro 3.0 Black, both switches deliver on providing a premium typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a high-pitched and poppy sound with a smooth and bouncy typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and more subdued sound with a smooth and silky typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. It all comes down to your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
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