Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, as well as its smooth tactile sensation. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback paired with a creamy, tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a heavier linear experience, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing sensation. With its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, this switch provides a balanced medium-heavy feel. While both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black provide unique characteristics to the overall sound profile of the switches. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more pronounced typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound, offering a different auditory sensation for users. While both switches have distinct sound profiles attributed to their top housings, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black produces a more muted and pleasing sound.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the G Pro 3.0 Black offer unique typing experiences. The choice between a switch with a polycarbonate top housing and one with a proprietary INK blend top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some users may prefer the sharper and resonant sound of the V3 Cream Blue Pro, while others may lean towards the slightly clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black. Similarly, the decision between nylon and POM bottom housing will affect the overall sound and feel of the switches, with nylon providing a fuller sound and POM offering a deeper and more muted sound profile.
In conclusion, the different housing materials used in the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black contribute to their individual sound profiles. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro excels in producing a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a unique and pleasing sound experience with its proprietary INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing. Despite these distinctions, both switches deliver quality typing experiences, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on the user's preference for sound profile and feel.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The lighter actuation force of the V3 Cream Blue Pro allows for faster typing speeds, while the heavier forces of the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal to users seeking a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Black has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black. Gamers may appreciate the faster response time that comes with a shorter travel distance like that of the V3 Cream Blue Pro, while others may prefer the more traditional depth provided by the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Blue Pro switch is known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively auditory feedback that is harmoniously paired with its tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as having a medium-high pitch sound that is balanced and not too loud. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more subdued sound compared to the lively and clacky sound of the Cream Blue Pro V3 switch. Sound preference is subjective and can be further influenced by factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is characterized by its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished qualities, providing users with a tactile response that is not overwhelming but still lively. It also offers a smooth and refined typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy, silky, and subtle, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Cream Blue Pro V3 switch emphasizes tactility, while the G Pro 3.0 Black switch prioritizes smoothness in typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Blue Pro V3 switch excels in providing a lively and tactile typing experience with a distinct sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Black switch prioritizes a smooth and buttery typing sensation with a medium-high pitch sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Users can expect similar quality results in terms of build and performance with both these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing force. If you prefer a lighter touch with a medium-light bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be a suitable choice. This switch's unique poppy and clacky sound profile, combined with a creamy, tactile sensation, is ideal for users who enjoy audible feedback and smooth key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a better fit. This switch offers a balanced medium-heavy feel with a focused auditory experience and enhanced RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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