Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Smoothie offer unique experiences worth considering. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, smoothness, and lively tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is a linear switch made entirely of POM material, providing a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Cream Blue Pro is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the Smoothie is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences; 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
40g
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Smoothie both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the materials used are different, both switches offer a distinct sound experience based on their top housing composition.
In terms of the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a nylon material that creates a deep and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which absorb more sound and result in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Smoothie features a POM bottom housing that contributes to the switch's unique sound profile. Despite having different compositions, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their respective bottom housing materials.
It's worth noting that the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Smoothie may have different housing materials, users can expect a tailored sound experience based on the unique properties of each housing material utilized in these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, when considering the bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 55 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Smoothie's force is not specified. Both switches offer a different typing feel, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro leaning towards a slightly heavier touch, suitable for those seeking a more substantial typing feedback, while the Smoothie may appeal to those looking for a lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sensation and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Blue Pro. The V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a shorter travel distance, which can appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie's longer travel distance may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences 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 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 Smoothie for $2.60.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback to the user. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its thocky sound signature, which is deep, rich, and satisfying when pressed. This difference in sound profile caters to different preferences, with the Cream Blue Pro being more vibrant and the Smoothie offering a more subdued and mellow tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cream Blue Pro is described as having a bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, offering users a tactile sensation that is not overwhelming but still prominent. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky keystroke experience, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation. Both switches prioritize smoothness in their feel, with the Cream Blue Pro leaning towards a more tactile experience and the Smoothie focusing on a seamless and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Smoothie switches offer different sound and feel experiences, both provide a high level of quality within their respective categories. Users who prioritize a more vibrant and tactile sound and feel may prefer the Cream Blue Pro, while those looking for a smoother and more linear typing experience may gravitate towards the Gateron Smoothie. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage. If you enjoy a lively and audible feedback with a creamy, tactile sensation at a medium-light bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch without a defined bottom out force, the Gateron Smoothie could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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