Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Pink are two popular options to choose from. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its budget-friendly appeal while still maintaining high quality. With a unique poppy and clacky sound and smooth feel, these linear switches are categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches offer a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack, making them a great choice for those who prefer a smoother experience. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', these linear switches provide a different typing experience than the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Pink, we can see that both switches have similar characteristics in terms of their top housing materials. Both switches utilize materials that create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and clear, resonant sound. Similarly, the Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which also produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, described as clacky. Therefore, in terms of sound profile, users can expect a similar experience from both switches due to their top housing materials.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Black Pro consists of a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink features Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which also contributes to the switch's high-pitched and clacky sound profile. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique sound experience that caters to different preferences.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Pink share similarities in their top housing materials, their bottom housing materials provide distinct sound profiles. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to its high-pitched and clacky sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch's 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro requires 65 grams, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink needs 60 grams. This makes the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch slightly heavier overall in both actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gateron Ink Box Pink, which has a lighter actuation and bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch due to its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it's evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm while the Ink Box Pink has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience for individuals with specific preferences. Gamers looking for quicker response times may opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may favor the Ink Box Pink with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Ink Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch produces a clacky, higher-pitched sound that is described as sharp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Cream Black Pro being more high-pitched and the Ink Box Pink having a distinctive clacky sound. These sound qualities can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch is known for its creamy and bouncy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with a spring-like feedback. The Ink Box Pink switch, on the other hand, provides a silky and polished typing feel, enhancing overall smoothness and reducing friction for a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Cream Black Pro providing a bouncy and snappy feel, while the Ink Box Pink offers a silky smooth typing experience with a polished finish.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch stands out for its high-pitched sound and creamy, bouncy feel, making it a great option for those looking for a sharp and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound and a silky, polished feel, providing a distinctive sound profile and smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. If you value a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy the high-pitched and clacky sound profile, along with a creamy and bouncy feel, then the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a higher-pitched and clacky sound, along with a silky and polished typing feel, then the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so be sure to consider these factors when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
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