Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° 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 Zero Degree 0° both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is praised for its budget-friendly price point while still providing a high-quality typing experience with its poppy and clacky sound and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design that enhances typing comfort and reduces noise. While the Cream Black Pro is known for its creamy and bouncy feel, the Zero Degree 0° offers unparalleled smoothness and stability. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches also allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition.
In terms of housing materials, the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Zero Degree 0° both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile. This makes them ideal choices for users looking for a switch with a crisper sound. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper sound profile compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials contributes to a different typing experience for each switch.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound and RGB lighting compatibility. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon housing, offering users a different typing experience based on their preference for a crisper or rounder sound. Ultimately, both switches deliver quality performance with slight variations in sound and feel due to their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro is heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher force requirements, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The Zero Degree 0°, on the other hand, offers a lighter typing experience with a lower actuation force, making it ideal for users who value longer typing sessions with less finger fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we find that the Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but for some users, it can make a significant impact on their typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Cream Black Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a more traditional and deeper typing feel may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to 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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 switches are known for their high-pitched and crisp sound profile, which can be appealing to those who prefer a sharper auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches have not been specifically described in terms of sound, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, both switches may produce satisfying acoustic feedback depending on the keyboard and keycap setup.
In regard to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switches are praised for their creamy and bouncy typing experience, offering a smooth and springy sensation with each keystroke. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches, while lacking a specific description, are highlighted for their unparalleled smoothness and stability, suggesting a potentially soft and elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Both switches seem to offer a comfortable typing experience with their respective characteristics, providing users with different but equally satisfying tactile feedback.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches each have their own unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cream Black Pro switches may offer a high-pitched and creamy typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° switches provide a potentially smooth and stable feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback, but either option is likely to deliver a quality typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique poppy and clacky sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you value silent typing with unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may be the better option for you. Consider factors such as sound preferences, feel, and typing experience when making your decision to ensure you choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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