Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Luciola mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch best known for its poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience coupled with a creamy tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola stands out for its glowing feature in the dark, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and distinct sound profile akin to a can of spray paint being shaken. While the Akko switch is easy-to-press and feathery, the Gateron switch is snappy, clacky, and buttery. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on individual preferences and typing style. 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
55g
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
3.60 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
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
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Luciola switches offer some distinct differences in terms of sound profiles and overall feel. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing that offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. Both materials bring unique characteristics to the switches, with polycarbonate offering a clearer and resonant sound compared to the INK blend's slightly softer yet still sharp sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro opts for a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. The Luciola, on the other hand, also features the proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, providing a similar high-pitched and clacky sound profile as its top housing. While both materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, the nylon bottom of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a deeper typing experience compared to the slightly softer INK blend bottom of the Luciola.
It is important to note that the differences in housing materials between the two switches can result in varying sound profiles and typing experiences. The split between the top and bottom housings means that the qualities of each material will impact different aspects of the switch's performance. When pressing down on the switch, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique and satisfying typing experiences, with the choice of housing material playing a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Luciola's 55 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, making them both medium in terms of force. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a slightly stronger push may opt for the Luciola. Overall, both switches provide a similar bottom out force, ensuring a consistent typing experience regardless of the slight variance in actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Luciola linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The difference in distance between the two switches may not be significant to most users, as both provide a relatively shallow key press compared to traditional switches with a 4.0mm travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
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 Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 linear switch offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch features a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken” sound profile, giving it a unique and distinct auditory signature. Both switches have different sound profiles, so your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preference for keyboard sound.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is described as having a smooth and creamy tactile feel, ideal for those who prefer a satisfying typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Luciola linear switch provides a bouncy and smooth typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and responsive keystroke. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, so it's essential to consider what feels best for your typing style and preference.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Gateron Luciola linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akko switch provides a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth, creamy tactile feel, while the Gateron switch offers a unique “can of spray paint being shaken” sound profile and a bouncy, smooth typing feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience, you can choose the switch that best suits your preferences. Keep in mind that both switches will provide a high-quality typing experience, ensuring satisfaction for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Luciola linear switches, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth, creamy tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer switches that glow in the dark, offer a bouncy and snappy typing experience, and produce a unique “can of spray paint being shaken” sound profile, the Gateron Luciola switches could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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