Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana each offer unique qualities to consider. The Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 switch is a linear switch that appeals to budget-conscious enthusiasts, providing a satisfying poppy sound and smoothness for those who appreciate a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a strong return and consistent feel with two-stage springs. While the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro appeals to those who prefer an 'easy-to-press', 'feathery', and 'bouncy' feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana caters to individuals seeking a 'polished', 'high-pitched', and 'resonant' typing 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
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
69g
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The primary difference between the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana is the use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize this material for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing element to the mechanical keyboard.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out the keys on these switches. The use of nylon for the bottom housing helps to balance out the overall sound and feel of the switch when combined with the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana have similar housing materials in terms of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, their individual design and construction may result in slight variations in sound and feel. However, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their combination of materials, making them suitable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch with an actuation force of 59 grams, making the Akko switch more responsive to lighter typing pressure. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires 60 grams, while the Jupiter Banana needs 69 grams, indicating that the Jupiter Banana switch is heavier and provides a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy category, but users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch for a more solid keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance may lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for a quicker feel, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Gateron Jupiter Banana. Overall, both switches provide a relatively similar experience given their close travel distances.
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 Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is known for its poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a vibrant auditory experience for users who enjoy a satisfying typing sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound, ideal for those who prefer sharper and crisper sound profiles. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Cream Yellow Pro focusing on a lively sound while the Jupiter Banana provides a clean and sharp auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities highlight the smooth and low-impact typing experience these switches offer, enhancing comfort and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, emphasizing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches excel in providing a refined and comfortable typing experience, with the Cream Yellow Pro focusing on responsiveness and light actuation force, while the Jupiter Banana delivers a silky and gliding keystroke sensation.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches are designed to provide an enhanced typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a poppy and clacky sound profile paired with a creamy tactile feel like the Cream Yellow Pro or a high-pitched and resonant sound with a smooth and buttery typing experience like the Jupiter Banana, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preferences and usage scenarios. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a satisfying poppy sound and creamy tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and a smooth buttery typing experience, the Gateron Jupiter Banana is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your sound and feel preference, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Choose wisely based on your typing style and personal preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
