Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, a clear distinction can be made between the two. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a superb choice for budget-minded individuals seeking high-quality switches, offering a unique poppy and clacky sound with exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out as a budget-friendly option with a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and appeals to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of these keyboards. However, with both switches utilizing the same material for their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and performance in this aspect.
On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon housing. With both switches sharing the same nylon bottom housing material, users can expect a consistent sound and typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
Ultimately, the housing materials used in the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound, they also share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The distribution of these materials in the switches affects how they sound and feel when typing, making them different in certain aspects while also promising comparable performance overall.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, we see that the V3 Cream Black Pro is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. The V3 Cream Black Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a balanced typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a slightly lighter actuation force, which may appeal to those seeking a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro's heavier bottom out force may be preferred by users looking for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. It is evident that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a longer travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prioritize a more responsive feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Both switches offer differing experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences and needs in keyboard usage. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for travel distance and key feedback.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are described as having a high-pitched sound profile. This means that they produce sharp and crisp sounds when pressed, providing an auditory experience that is distinct and impactful. While the V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its poppy and clacky sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a higher-pitched and resonant sound that adds to its unique appeal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of your mechanical keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow are described as having a creamy feel. This indicates that they offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, likely due to factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switches. Additionally, the V3 Cream Black Pro is noted for its bouncy and snappy feel, providing a spring-like feedback and heightened responsiveness during typing. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow, on the other hand, is highlighted for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In terms of feel, both switches offer a delightful typing experience characterized by their creaminess and tactile feedback.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While both switches offer a high-pitched sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its poppy and clacky sound, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a more resonant auditory experience. In terms of feel, both switches offer a creamy typing sensation, with the V3 Cream Black Pro boasting a bouncy and snappy feedback, and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offering a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, you should prioritize certain factors. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound profile, along with smooth key presses, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher pitched clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, you may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound and feel when typing, as both switches offer medium-heavy bottom out forces and high-quality performance.
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