Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 switches are perfect for budget-conscious enthusiasts who enjoy a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Reds provide a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, appealing to those who prefer a seamless typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, making them suitable choices for 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Red, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red also uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro.
While both switches have similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the distribution of these materials impacts the overall sound and feel of each switch. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. On the other hand, the top housing material has more influence on the sound when a key is released, highlighting the sharp and resonant qualities of polycarbonate in both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Jupiter Red. Despite the differences in the bottom housing material, both switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the strengths of polycarbonate and nylon to enhance sound and feel.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Red both contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the typing experience. The differences in housing materials between the switches offer users a choice in sound preferences, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro providing a crisper sound profile through its combination of polycarbonate and nylon, and the Jupiter Red offering a similar experience with its own unique blend of materials. Ultimately, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have similar bottom out forces of 60 grams. However, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires a slightly heavier push to trigger a keystroke compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gateron Jupiter Red for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jupiter Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro falls into the category of switches with shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red offers a deeper press for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes. Both switches offer different experiences based on their respective travel distances, catering to different preferences among users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prioritizes a quicker, more responsive keystroke or a more substantial, deeper press.
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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is known for its poppy, clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is classified as a neutral switch, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so users may experience variations in sound based on their setup.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is characterized as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Conversely, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their distinct tactile qualities, catering to different preferences of users.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow Pro switch provides a poppy, clacky sound and a creamy tactile feel, the Jupiter Red switch focuses on a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with softer backlight effects. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience that aligns with their preferences. Overall, both switches provide distinct characteristics that cater to various typing styles and preferences, ensuring a diverse range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a vibrant auditory experience and a creamy tactile feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch would be an ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch would suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and tactile sensation or a seamless typing experience. Both switches offer medium bottom out force at 60 grams, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
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