Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offer distinct options tailored to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its lively poppy and clacky sound profile combined with a creamy tactile sensation, making it an appealing choice for users who enjoy audible feedback and a bouncy feel while typing. This switch provides an engaging experience, ideal for typists who crave a bit of character in each keystroke while sticking to a budget. Conversely, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, a linear switch, prioritizes a smooth and thocky experience that allows for fluid key presses without the tactile bump. This switch is distinguished by its exceptional smoothness, catering to gamers and typists who prefer an uninterrupted glide and a quieter sound profile. Both switches excel in delivering quality while appealing to different typing sensations; 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
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, we see two distinct choices that significantly influence the sound and feel of each switch. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This makes the Pro ideal for those who prefer a crisper auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie opts for a POM top housing that produces a deeper, more muted sound, providing a soft auditory experience. This fundamental difference in the top housing material leads to contrasting sound profiles that cater to different user preferences—those seeking a more resonant and bright sound versus those leaning towards a richer and subtler acoustic signature.
Turning to the bottom housing of these switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro employs a classic nylon material, which contributes a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This element absorbs more sound, allowing for a rounder tonality that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie uses a POM bottom housing that also cultivates a muted and pleasant sound profile. While both switches aim for a more subdued auditory feedback, the nylon in the V3 Cream Blue Pro introduces a different texture and depth compared to the POM. Here, users might note that while both switches yield similar sound characteristics from the bottom housing, the specific materials create unique sensory experiences.
Ultimately, the distinct housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie influence their sound profiles in unique ways, with the softness of nylon countered by the crispness of polycarbonate in the former and a consistent smoother tone in the latter's POM structures. Despite the differences in material, typing experience remains coherent, as both aim for a satisfying soundscape that users can enjoy. Those who appreciate the qualities of each housing material will find that the specific combinations available in these switches lead to fulfilling auditory experiences, as both switches artfully balance the tonal nuances between the top and bottom components to create engaging responses while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams. This means that the Akko switch is lighter, making it more suitable for those who prefer less resistance and extended typing sessions, whereas the Gateron switch may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel. In terms of bottom out forces, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a measured bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown. As such, users who prefer a more tactile experience should gravitate towards the V3 Cream Blue Pro, while the Gateron might still offer a lighter touch overall if the bottom out performance aligns with its actuation characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, the differences are notable. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option between the two. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, providing a more substantial feel during key presses. This characteristic may appeal to those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience when typing or gaming. While shorter travel distances, like that of the V3 Cream Blue Pro, are often favored for their responsiveness, the longer travel distance of the Sea Salt Smoothie can deliver a more pronounced feedback that some users appreciate. Therefore, if quick response times are your priority, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro would be ideal, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is better suited for those who enjoy the sensation of a deeper key press.
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 Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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
The sound profile of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is characterized by a distinct poppy and clacky tone, perfect for users who enjoy audible feedback during their typing sessions. This lively sound is enhanced by its tactile nature, providing that satisfying acoustic feedback that some typists crave. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie features a thocky sound profile, which gives a deeper, more muted auditory feedback compared to the Cream Blue Pro. While both switches offer enjoyable sound qualities, the Akko V3 may appeal more to those looking for a bright, engaging auditory experience, while the Sea Salt Smoothie will likely satisfy those who prefer a lower, more subdued thock.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its balanced tactile response, described as medium tactile and accented, allowing for a satisfying yet not overwhelming feedback. The bouncy nature of the switch contributes to a lively typing experience, giving users a noticeable rebound on key presses. Additionally, the polished finish ensures a smooth key travel that enhances overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the tactile qualities of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie remain less defined in the provided information, but its all-POM construction suggests a smooth and consistent feel that could compete well with the Cream Blue Pro's tactile characteristics. Without detailed descriptors for the Sea Salt Smoothie, it remains uncertain how its tactile experience compares directly to that of the Akko V3.
In summary, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cream Blue Pro's bright, clacky sound and medium tactile feel make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy feedback in their typing, while the thocky sound and potentially smooth feel of the Sea Salt Smoothie might attract users who favor a more subdued experience. As a newcomer, you may find that your preferences for sound and feel lead you to one switch over the other, but both have their merits and can deliver a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy vibrant auditory feedback with a tactile bump, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is an ideal option. Its balanced 55g bottom-out force ensures an engaging and responsive typing experience, making it perfect for those who appreciate a lively and pronounced feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a thocky sound profile, the Sea Salt Smoothie is your go-to choice. Its medium weight offers a blend of stability and fluidity, making it great for long typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. Ultimately, both switches bring unique qualities to the table—if you relish the tactile feedback and sound of a clacky switch, the V3 Cream Blue Pro shines brightly. Conversely, if you favor seamless keystrokes with a satisfying auditory response, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie could elevate your typing experience to new heights.
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