Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When delving into the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for consideration are the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish. The Cream Yellow Pro V3 stands out for its budget-friendly pricing and combination of a poppy, clacky sound with smoothness, appealing to those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience and creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the EverFree Grayish switches are hailed for their custom molds, medium weight, neutral sound signature, and accessible price point, making them a top choice for those seeking a default tactile option. 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
50g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches can be compared and contrasted in terms of their polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
However, a key difference between the two switches lies in the color of their top housings. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a cream yellow polycarbonate top housing, which may impact the overall aesthetic of the switch. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch has a grayish polycarbonate top housing, adding a different visual appeal to the switch. While both switches share similar attributes in terms of sound profiles and housing materials, the color difference in the top housing may cater to different preferences in terms of design and customization.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, aesthetics, and feel. Both switches offer excellent performance with their polycarbonate top housings creating a sharp sound profile and nylon bottom housings providing a deep and full sound experience. Whether you prefer the cream yellow hue of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the grayish color of the EverFree (EF) Grayish, both switches deliver quality results in terms of typing experience and sound output.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, we see a difference in actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the EverFree Grayish has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires 60 grams to bottom out, while the EverFree Grayish force is unknown. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a more balanced typing experience with a medium actuation and bottom out force, while the EverFree Grayish may provide a more tactile typing feel with its heavier actuation force. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the lighter V3 Cream Yellow Pro for longer typing sessions or the heavier EverFree Grayish for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant for most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch more to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a quick and responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow Pro for $2.00.
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy and clacky sound that adds to the overall typing experience, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and settings. Both switches are designed to offer an enjoyable auditory experience, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro leaning towards a more distinctive sound and the EF Grayish maintaining a neutral tone that won't be too loud or distracting.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for its easy-to-press nature, feathery feel, bounciness, snappiness, and polished finish, making it a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as having a stepped feel and being snappy, providing users with a responsive and engaging typing sensation. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a variety of tactile sensations, the EF Grayish focuses on a more controlled and responsive keystroke.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch both have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a more distinctive sound and a variety of tactile sensations with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, or a neutral sound profile and a controlled, responsive feel with the EF Grayish, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are a budget-conscious enthusiast looking for a smooth and clacky sound paired with a creamy tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a medium actuation force switch that offers moderate resistance and responsiveness, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and feel characteristics that align with your preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
