Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Quinn both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is praised for its poppy and clacky sound profile, smooth tactile sensation, and budget-friendly price point. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn stands out with its crisp, light switch-like tactility and deep, resonant sound profile that adds character to each keystroke. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, but the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a more lively and audible feedback, while the Gateron Quinn provides a precise and clean tactile bump. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Quinn, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Quinn's top housing is also constructed from nylon, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall. While both switches may use nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in top housing material significantly impacts the sound produced when typing on each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing that is translucent, allowing for the use of RGB lighting to enhance the overall look of the switch. This makes it ideal for users who value colorful lighting effects to complement their keyboard setup. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of translucency, making it more suitable for users who prefer a more understated and classic design without the need for RGB lighting. The choice of top housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall aesthetic appeal of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Quinn, both switches ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a unique sound profile that is both crisp and deep, offering a balance between clarity and richness. On the other hand, the Quinn's nylon top and bottom housing create a consistent, rounded sound that appeals to users seeking a more traditional typing experience. Overall, while the housing materials may vary between these switches, the end result is a tactile and auditory experience that is sure to please keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that there are differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a medium-light feel, while the Quinn offers a medium-heavy feel, catering to users with different preferences in terms of typing force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether a user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Quinn being slightly longer than the V3 Cream Blue Pro. The difference in travel distance is minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. If you prioritize a slightly deeper key press, the Gateron Quinn may be the better choice, while those looking for a slightly faster response time may prefer the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience with their respective travel distances.
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 Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches offer a deep and resonant sound profile, characterized by a bassy and resonant tone that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. The Quinn switches also provide a crisp and clean tactile bump during key presses, enhancing the overall typing feedback.
When it comes to feel, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Gateron Quinn switches offer a snappy and polished typing experience. The V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are described as providing an accented and bouncy tactile sensation, giving users a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet not subtle. The Quinn switches, on the other hand, also offer a snappy and polished feel, along with a buttery and creamy typing experience that is smooth and fluid. The keys of the Quinn switches have a lively bounce when pressed, providing a responsive and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Gateron Quinn switches offer slightly different sound and feel profiles, both switches deliver a high-quality and satisfying typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the poppy and clacky sound of the Cream Blue Pro or the deep and resonant sound of the Quinn, you can expect similar levels of responsiveness and smoothness in both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and tactile feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider the following factors. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and is known for its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Quinn provides a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and delivers a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound due to its specially designed nylon housings. If you prefer a lively and audible feedback with a creamy tactile feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the right choice for you. However, if you lean towards a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump accompanied by a rich and immersive sound profile, the Gateron Quinn could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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