Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a harmonious blend of auditory feedback and tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is incredibly smooth and creamy, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. While the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be favored by those who appreciate a lively feedback and tactile feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black appeals to users seeking a smoother and quieter typing experience. 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
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
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black, we see differences in both the top and bottom housings. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This is especially advantageous for those looking to showcase RGB lighting in their switches. In contrast, the Ink Box Black employs a proprietary INK blend top housing, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound profile that is often described as clacky. While both provide unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro seems to offer a more resonant and clear sound compared to the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the V3 Cream Blue Pro features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black incorporates the same proprietary INK blend material for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile as the top housing. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to the overall clacky sound associated with this switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black play a crucial role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a clear and resonant sound, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black offers a satisfying clacky sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro delivers a deeper and fuller sound, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black adds to the overall high-pitched sound profile. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, which requires 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is still lighter at 55 grams, while the Gateron Ink Box Black is heavier at 70 grams. This means that the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black offers a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch. This means that the Gateron switch will provide a bit more key travel when pressed down. However, both switches fall within the range of short travel distances, with the Akko switch being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key travel depth and responsiveness.
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 Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 tactile switch offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is both lively and audible. This sound profile is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation, creating a unique auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. The Ink Box Black provides a more crisp and bright sound compared to the Cream Blue Pro, catering to users who prefer a different auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is described as having an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. This means that the Cream Blue Pro offers a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, along with a lively and responsive keypress experience. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a polished feel, but the Cream Blue Pro emphasizes tactile feedback while the Ink Box Black focuses on smoothness.
Taking all factors into consideration, users can expect a unique and enjoyable typing experience from both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch. While the Cream Blue Pro offers a lively and tactile sound profile paired with a medium level of tactility, the Ink Box Black provides a smooth and silky typing experience with a high-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a lively, audible feedback and creamy, tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a high-pitched, clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches would be the better fit. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, bottom out force, and budget when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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