Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a satisfying combination of sound and smoothness, making it ideal for users who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience coupled with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly linear switch that provides a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The G Pro Red also boasts a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the G Pro 3.0 Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this housing material, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the G Pro 3.0 Red differ in their nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may have a different bottom-out sound and feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red.
Despite their differences in bottom housings, the use of polycarbonate in the top housings of both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the G Pro 3.0 Red ensures a similar sound profile with sharper and crisper tones. The nylon bottom housings, on the other hand, contribute to a deeper and fuller sound that may vary between the two switches. When pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of each key press. Conversely, the qualities of the top housing are more noticeable when releasing a key, affecting the sound profile as keys are lifted.
In conclusion, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the G Pro 3.0 Red both offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the polycarbonate top housings provide a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller tone. This combination makes each switch unique in its sound profile, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro potentially having a crisper bottom-out sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. Overall, both switches are designed to offer a satisfying typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch with 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires 60 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Red only needs 50 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Red a lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the G Pro 3.0 Red more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a bit more resistance, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch which has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the G Pro 3.0 Red's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer different experiences when it comes to travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. Regardless of the difference in travel distance, both switches will provide a smooth keystroke and reliable performance for users.
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 G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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 is known for providing a poppy, clacky sound that adds vibrancy to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience. While both switches have their own unique sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and how they pair with your choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a combination of gentle resistance, lightness, liveliness, and smoothness in typing. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness. Both switches boast qualities that can enhance the typing experience, catering to different preferences for tactile feedback and keypress sensation.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switches each bring their own unique qualities to the table, offering distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer a poppy, clacky sound paired with a creamy tactile feel or a medium-high pitch with a smooth and buttery typing experience, both switches provide options for budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to elevate their typing performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switches, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth typing experience with vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red might be more suitable for you. Both switches have their unique qualities, so ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Make your choice based on what aligns best with your typing habits and preferences to get the most out of your mechanical keyboard setup. Happy typing!
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