Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both offer compelling advantages for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is celebrated for its captivating poppy and clacky sound profile, delivering a smooth experience that appeals to those who enjoy tactile feedback and a bit of auditory flair, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice for quality seekers. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red emphasizes a serene typing experience with its medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease, while also enhancing your keyboard aesthetics with its frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting. Both switches provide unique auditory qualities and performance features, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches, it is clear that both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This shared material results in a distinctly sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, stemming from the stiff nature of polycarbonate. The translucency of the polycarbonate also makes it a prime choice for RGB lighting compatibility, enhancing the visual appeal of both switches. Aesthetically, since both top housings are clear, users can expect a similar ethereal effect when illuminating their keyboards, leading to a consistent and vibrant lighting experience across both models.
However, the contrast appears in the choice of bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro employs a nylon bottom housing, celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is because nylon's softer, sound-absorbing characteristics dampen the intensity of the sound waves, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, thereby mirroring the V3 Cream Black Pro's sound profile characteristics. Both switches capitalize on the dampening and absorbing benefits of nylon, allowing for a more uniform sound quality from the bottom up.
Ultimately, the acoustic performance of both switches is significantly influenced by their combination of housing materials. While they share the same polycarbonate top housing, which enhances brightness and clarity in sound, they also utilize nylon in the bottom housing to impart a fuller and deeper tone. This harmonious blend of materials means that users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either switch, despite their differing branding. Hence, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red have been designed to deliver a cohesive auditory experience, drawing from the distinct advantages provided by their respective housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, we notice distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference means that those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions would lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red, while users seeking a more substantial feel may favor the V3 Cream Black Pro. Ultimately, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a softer, less demanding experience, making it ideal for long usage, whereas the heavier forces of the V3 Cream Black Pro could appeal to those who appreciate a firmer push in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the V3 Cream Black Pro the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that many gamers might appreciate for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a longer travel distance, which can feel more substantial and satisfying for users who prefer a deeper pressing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences—if you favor speed and quick response times, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the V3 Cream Black Pro would be ideal. Conversely, if you enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, the longer 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red would likely be more suitable.
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 Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is known for its distinctive high-pitched auditory profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound upon actuation. This sound quality can lend a vibrant atmosphere while typing, particularly appealing for those who prefer a lively acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a neutral sound, characterized by a moderate actuation force and sound profile that suits both casual users and veterans alike. Its sound is unobtrusive, making it favorable for use in environments where noise levels should be kept in check, such as offices or shared spaces. Therefore, if one values vibrant auditory feedback, the V3 Cream Black Pro is the better choice, while those seeking a quieter experience might gravitate toward the G Pro 3.0 Red.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its creamy and bouncy characteristics. Its buttery smoothness allows for an effortless typing motion, enhanced by a delightful snap-back, making every keystroke feel lively and engaging. This pleasant tactile feedback is ideal for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red also delivers a creamy feel, ensuring smooth key travel, but it leans toward a mild typist experience. While it is still smooth, it lacks the pronounced bounce characteristic of the Cream Black Pro. The polished finish of both switches further contributes to their refined and smooth typing experience, providing reduced friction that benefits typists eager for precision and comfort.
In summary, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches offer excellent typing experiences, but they cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Black Pro excels with its poppy, high-pitched sound and engaging, buoyant feel, making it perfect for users who enjoy a lively typing environment. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a balanced, neutral sound profile with a milder feel, making it a great option for those requiring a more subdued and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize vibrant sound and responsiveness or a cleaner, more neutral approach to sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a more tactile and engaging experience with a heavier keypress, the V3 Cream Black Pro with its 65-gram bottom out force may be ideal for you, especially if you enjoy a poppy, high-pitched sound that energizes your typing sessions. The creamy feel and bouncy feedback of these switches also make them an excellent choice for gamers or heavy typists who appreciate a responsive and lively key action. Conversely, if ease of use and a lighter touch is more your style, the G Pro 3.0 Red switches, with their 50-gram bottom out force, can provide a smooth and effortless typing experience. They strike a balance between being user-friendly and providing a neutral auditory signature, making them suitable for both work and casual settings. Furthermore, the enhanced RGB capabilities of the G Pro Red would appeal to those who prioritize aesthetics in their keyboard setup. Ultimately, assess your priorities—whether it's typing feel, actuation force, or sound profile—to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
