Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, a linear switch, to the Gateron Ink Yellow, also a linear switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is popular among budget-conscious mechanical keyboard enthusiasts for its satisfying combination of poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, ideal for those seeking a vibrant auditory experience coupled with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow stands out for its shorter travel, appealing to individuals looking for a typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. While the Akko V3 offers an 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished' feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Polished'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on the individual's specific needs and 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
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow, both switches feature unique properties that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound that is enhanced by its translucency for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top housing that also produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, albeit with a slightly less sharp quality described as clacky. While both switches have distinct sound profiles, they both offer a satisfying typing experience with their top housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound that complements the sharper tones from the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also contributes to the overall sound profile with a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound that complements the top housing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with their bottom housing materials, showcasing the importance of the overall housing design in creating a distinct sound signature.
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow play a crucial role in defining their sound profiles and typing experiences. While each switch offers a different combination of top and bottom housing materials, they both deliver satisfying results with their distinct sound characteristics. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the proprietary INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a unique and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is lighter, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a more medium-weight option. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Gateron Ink Yellow would be better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ink Yellow switch. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a quicker response time may lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while individuals who enjoy a bit more depth to their keystrokes may opt for the Gateron Ink Yellow. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between travel distance and responsiveness, ensuring a comfortable typing or gaming 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 Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Yellow Pro switch offers a poppy and clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate level of clackiness. Both switches can potentially produce satisfying sound results, depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities contribute to a smooth and low-impact typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing overall typing comfort. In comparison, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience, falling in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, making them suitable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch each have their unique sound and feel characteristics. The Cream Yellow Pro is more vibrant and offers a variety of tactile sensations, while the Gateron Ink Yellow provides a neutral sound and a mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and specific typing needs, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the potential for similar results in terms of sound and feel when used in the appropriate keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch or the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a creamy tactile feel and a poppy, clacky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance and a pleasant smoothness, the Gateron Ink Yellow could be the better choice. Both switches offer different characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to test them out to see which one suits your typing needs best. Ultimately, the decision lies in what kind of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a lively and bouncy feel with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or a polished and mild sensation with the Ink Yellow. Choose wisely based on what resonates with you most.
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