Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have their own unique features to offer. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is praised for its budget-friendly option with high-quality performance, featuring a distinctive poppy and clacky sound combined with smoothness. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow is known for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. While the V3 Cream Black Pro is categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', the Ink Yellow is described as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Polished'. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile, while the Gateron Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Despite these differences, both switches excel at producing a clear and resonant sound due to their unique housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Comparatively, the Gateron Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that adds to its clacky sound. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound of each switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Gateron Ink Yellow differ, they both play essential roles in shaping the switches' sound profiles. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice of housing material in each switch contributes to the overall typing experience and sound characteristics that set them apart from each other.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch's 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Black Pro requires 65 grams, while the Ink Yellow needs 67 grams, making them fairly similar in this regard. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Cream Black Pro for a smoother typing experience, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the Ink Yellow for a more pronounced keystroke feel. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, offering a balance between responsiveness and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will boil down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Ink Yellow has a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Ink Yellow. Gamers looking for fast and responsive keystrokes may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Ink Yellow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for their speed and efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 offers a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, which can be appealing to those who prefer a crisper tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch provides a neutral sound profile with a slightly clacky and percussive tone, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also vary depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is known for its creamy and bouncy typing experience, offering a smooth and springy sensation with each keystroke. It also boasts a snappy and polished feel, providing a refined and responsive typing experience. The Gateron Ink Yellow switch, on the other hand, offers a milder typing experience that is approachable to most users, coupled with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize a smooth and polished feel for an enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Gateron Ink Yellow switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Cream Black Pro switch provides a high-pitched and creamy typing experience with a bouncy and snappy feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a neutral sound profile with a clacky tone and a mild, polished feel. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to mechanical keyboards can achieve similar results in sound and feel with the right selection.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a high-pitched and creamy typing experience with a bouncy and snappy feedback, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a neutral and clacky switch with a polished finish that offers a mild typing experience, the Gateron Ink Yellow could be the better option. Consider your typing style and the type of sound and feel you prefer in a switch when making your decision. Choose the switch that best suits your personal preferences and typing needs.
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