Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, to the Gateron North Pole V2, a linear switch, it's evident that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, coupled with a smooth tactile sensation, making it an ideal choice for users who enjoy a lively feedback experience. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 is praised for its gummy and creamy typing feel, providing a deep and muted sound profile that appeals to those seeking a more subdued typing experience. Each switch has its own set of qualities, with the Cream Blue Pro offering a more bouncy and snappy feel, while the North Pole V2 delivers a chewy and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose depends on individual preferences 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing, the different bottom housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 result in varying sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a deeper sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials means that the feel and sound of pressing down on the switch will be influenced by the bottom housing, while the release of a key will be impacted by the top housing.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing for similar sound characteristics, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The switch experience will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key and the top housing when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound from nylon or a sharper, crisper sound from polycarbonate, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that they have different weight profiles. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those seeking a stronger typing experience. Both switches offer a different tactile feedback experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for typing pressure. Ultimately, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro is lighter and the North Pole V2 is heavier, both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro. The V3 Cream Blue Pro falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a deeper key press experience, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and key press depth.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 switches are known for their distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a lively and audible feedback that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches provide a subdued sound profile, with a deep and muted tone that is satisfying to many typists. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, showcasing the variety available in the mechanical keyboard switch market.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium tactile sensation with a prominent amount of tactility while also offering a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches are known for their gummy and creamy typing experience, offering a unique sensation that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, and providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction. Both switches deliver distinct tactile experiences that cater to individuals looking for different typing sensations.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer a range of subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches provide a lively and clacky sound profile with a tactile and smooth typing experience, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer a subdued sound profile with a gummy and creamy typing feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their individual typing preferences. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro or Gateron North Pole V2 switches, you can expect to have a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a lively and audible feedback paired with a creamy, tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches would be the better option. Ultimately, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch will depend on whether you prioritize sound profile and tactile feedback or a smoother, linear typing experience. Consider your preferences and priorities carefully to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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