Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, you have two distinct options to consider. The Cream Black Pro V3 stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality performance, with a unique poppy and clacky sound that is smooth to the touch. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a gummy and muted sound profile, providing a satisfyingly chewy typing experience. These switches are categorized differently, with the Cream Black Pro being described as 'creamy,' 'high-pitched,' and 'bouncy,' while the North Pole V2 is labeled as 'gummy,' 'subdued,' and '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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro differs from the North Pole V2 in terms of their bottom housings, with the former utilizing a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
The choice of housing material in switches not only affects the sound profile but also the overall typing experience. For the V3 Cream Black Pro with its nylon bottom housing, users can expect a softer bottom-out sound and feel compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing, which provides a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall typing feel and sound when using these switches. However, both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, ensuring a similar high-pitched and clear sound profile upon key release.
In conclusion, while both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 feature polycarbonate top housings for a similar sound profile upon key release, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The V3 Cream Black Pro with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound during typing, while the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the housing materials of switches play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have similar bottom out forces of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. However, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron North Pole V2's 50 grams. This means that the Akko switch requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. When it comes to weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gateron North Pole V2 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a satisfying typing experience for different preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the North Pole V2's 4 mm. The North Pole V2 has a more traditional travel distance, while the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a quicker response time favored by gamers. Gamers may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro for its shorter travel distance, leading to faster reaction times during gameplay. However, those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the North Pole V2 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 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 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch offers a high-pitched and crisp sound profile, making each keypress stand out with sharp clarity. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a more subdued and muted sound, offering a quieter typing experience that may appeal to those seeking a more subtle auditory feedback. Both switches can provide satisfying sound experiences, with the Cream Black Pro offering a sharper note and the North Pole V2 delivering a more dampened sound.
In terms of feel, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer a creamy and buttery typing experience, characterized by smooth and effortless keystrokes. Additionally, both switches exhibit a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, providing a lively feel with each key press. The switches are also described as polished, meaning they offer a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches provide a similar typing feel, with slight variations in sound profile and keypress response depending on personal preference. Whether you choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro or the Gateron North Pole V2, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that combines smoothness, bounce, and polish.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound profile and notable smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a gummy, deep, and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 might be the switch for you. Both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them suitable for those who prefer a medium-heavy typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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