Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red stand out for different reasons. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch that offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, paired with a smooth and creamy tactile sensation. This makes it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a lively feedback and audible response. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch known for its smooth typing experience and medium-light actuation force. It also features a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience. Whether you prefer a tactile switch with audible feedback or a linear switch for a smoother typing experience, both switches have their unique advantages. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is beneficial for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the switches. Despite similarities in their top housing materials, the switches differ in their bottom housing composition, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Red also incorporates nylon but for a duller and rounder sound.
The distinction in bottom housing materials between the two switches results in unique typing experiences for users. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and delivering a satisfying typing sensation. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing creates a rounder sound profile, providing a different tactile feedback when typing. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials showcase how specific compositions can influence the overall typing feel and sound profile of a switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red offers users a unique typing experience with varying sound profiles and tactile feedback. While the polycarbonate top housing enhances the sharpness and clarity of the typing sound, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the depth and fullness of the sound profile. Whether users prefer a crisper sound profile with a stiffer polycarbonate top housing or a rounder sound profile with a softer nylon bottom housing, both switches provide a range of options for individuals looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Red the lighter option of the two switches. The actuation force of both switches being the same means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. The difference in bottom out force, though, means that the V3 Cream Blue Pro will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the lighter touch of the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel for their keyboard.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more substantial key press feel.
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 Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing users with a lively and audible feedback that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, with a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, if sound is a priority, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch may be the preferred choice for those seeking a more vibrant and energetic typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is highlighted by its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished characteristics, offering a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet provides a prominent amount of tactility. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If a smooth and gentle typing experience is desired, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch may be the preferred option for users who prioritize comfort and ease of use.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch excels in providing a lively and audible feedback with a creamy, tactile sensation, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, and both options are solid choices for those seeking quality switches within a budget.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a poppy and clacky sound profile, smooth keystrokes, and a harmonious blend of auditory feedback and tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly linear switch with a light bottom out force, smooth typing experience, vibrant RGB lighting effects, and a satisfying auditory experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features and qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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