Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Smoothie 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 Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer their own unique features and benefits. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for budget-minded individuals looking for high-quality switches that provide a poppy and clacky sound, along with remarkable smoothness. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its thocky sound signature, silky smoothness, and lightweight touch, all at an affordable price point. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Smoothie, there is a clear difference in the top housing material used. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have their advantages, the polycarbonate in the V3 Cream Black Pro allows for a more clear and resonant sound, ideal for those who enjoy a sharper typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Smoothie provides a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both switches differ once again. The V3 Cream Black Pro boasts a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Smoothie also utilizes a POM bottom housing, contributing to the pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. Despite the differences in material, both the nylon and POM bottom housings offer a similar experience in terms of sound profile, providing a more muted and deeper typing feel compared to their respective top housings.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the split between the top and bottom housings is crucial. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing the key. This distinction is important to note when comparing the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Smoothie, as the combination of different housing materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted typing experience, both switches offer a diverse range of options to cater to different typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro is heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Smoothie. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The weight of the switches plays a crucial role in the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches offer a more substantial push feel. Both switches have their own advantages, and selecting the right one depends on individual preferences for typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of distance, the Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance than the Cream Black Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch when typing or gaming. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular for their quicker reaction times. However, individuals may have varying preferences when it comes to travel distance, with some favoring the shorter 3.3 mm of the Cream Black Pro for its responsiveness and others leaning towards the slightly longer 3.6 mm of the Smoothie for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 switch is characterized by its high-pitched and poppy sound, creating a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich tone with a subtle and subdued quality. While both switches offer unique sound characteristics, the V3 Cream Black Pro leans towards a sharper and more vibrant sound, while the Smoothie delivers a deeper and more mellow tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound profiles.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is renowned for its creamy and bouncy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with a lively bounce feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch is described as buttery and silky, providing a seamless and uniform typing feel with minimal resistance. Both switches prioritize smoothness in their tactile response, with the V3 Cream Black Pro emphasizing a bouncy and snappy feedback, while the Smoothie focuses on a silky and polished typing experience. When it comes to feel, users may prefer the bouncy and spring-like feedback of the V3 Cream Black Pro or the effortlessly smooth keystrokes of the Gateron Smoothie.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Gateron Smoothie switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches. The V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its high-pitched and creamy sound profile, paired with a bouncy and polished typing feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a vibrant and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie impresses with its thocky and buttery sound signature, delivering a silky and uniform typing sensation that appeals to users looking for a deep and smooth keystroke. Both switches provide high-quality performance at their respective price points, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique poppy and clacky sound with notable smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie would be the perfect fit for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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