Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko Cream Black Pro V3 switches are ideal for budget-conscious individuals looking for high-quality switches that deliver a satisfying poppy and clacky sound, along with remarkable smoothness. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches provide a crisp typing experience without a rubber dampener, maintaining a frictionless typing feel that many users appreciate. 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
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron New North Pole V2, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro also includes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the effects seen in the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that resonates throughout the keyboard. Unlike the V3 Cream Black Pro, the New North Pole V2 does not feature a nylon bottom housing, so the sound and feel of the switches are influenced solely by the polycarbonate material. Therefore, while both keyboards share similar qualities in their top housing materials, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a unique sound experience with its nylon bottom housing.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing materials in both keyboards impacts the overall sound and typing experience. With the split in qualities between the top and bottom housings, users will notice differences in sound depending on whether they're pressing down on a key or releasing it. The V3 Cream Black Pro's combination of polycarbonate top housing for sharper sounds and nylon bottom housing for fuller sounds provides a balanced typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron New North Pole V2's consistency in using polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings delivers a uniform sound profile throughout the keyboard. Ultimately, the decision between these two keyboards comes down to personal preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, but the V3 Cream Black Pro is slightly heavier in comparison. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - the V3 Cream Black Pro would provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier forces, while the New North Pole V2 would be lighter and potentially more comfortable for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, users looking for a more significant push feel may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro, while those seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the New North Pole V2.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2. A shorter travel distance can result in faster response times, making it ideal for gamers or individuals who prioritize quick key presses. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of depth when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 is best described as having a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, offering a unique poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch's sound profile is unknown, but it should be noted that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches offer a polished typing experience, with smooth and refined finishes that result in a sleek and frictionless key travel. The Cream Black Pro switch is further described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth, elastic, and responsive typing experience. Similarly, the New North Pole V2 switch is also described as creamy, providing a buttery and silky typing sensation, as well as frictionless for an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. As both switches offer a polished and creamy typing experience, users can expect similar results in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch stands out for its high-pitched sound profile and creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, making it a great choice for budget-minded individuals seeking a smooth and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a creamy feel, maintaining the seamless glide and smoothness characteristic of the Gateron brand. Ultimately, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their own unique sound and feel characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, you should keep a few key factors in mind. If you value a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a unique poppy and clacky sound with smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and desire a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, along with a smooth and frictionless typing feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific features that matter most to you.
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