Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, with the Gateron Lunar Probe, a linear switch, it is important to consider the key characteristics that set them apart. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is praised for its poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth tactile sensation that appeals to users looking for a budget-friendly option with quality. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its dual rail mechanism that ensures stable keypresses, offering an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear experience. While the Cream Blue Pro is known for its lively feedback and tactile feel, the Lunar Probe focuses on consistency and smoothness. 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
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
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe, we find that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This means that both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing experience. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, users can expect similar results from both switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. This means that users can enjoy a consistent typing experience across both switches due to their shared bottom housing material.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe may differ slightly in their housing materials, both switches ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housings results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with sharper tones or a deeper, fuller sound with a rounder feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to various typing styles. Ultimately, users can choose between the two switches based on their preferred sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams each. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 50 grams, making the V3 Cream Blue Pro slightly heavier overall. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Lunar Probe provides a lighter feel. Some users may prefer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the Lunar Probe for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, slightly shorter than the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most traditional, the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly shorter distance suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch provides a bit more depth in its travel, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and 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 Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 is often praised for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a more subtle sound signature that complements its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is characterized by an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers a medium level of tactility without being overly tactile, along with a spring-like feedback and a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is not specified in the provided information, but given its pre-lubed linear design, users can expect a consistent and smooth keypress each time.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro excels in providing a lively and tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile, making it appealing to users who enjoy feedback that's both audible and tactile. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe offers a smooth and stable keypress with a more subtle sound signature, ideal for those who prioritize consistency and smoothness in their typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a lively, tactile feedback with a creamy sensation and an audible, poppy sound profile, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with stable and consistent keypresses accompanied by a subtle sound signature, then the Gateron Lunar Probe would be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding sound, feel, and typing style.
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