Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Melodic mechanical keyboard switches, a key consideration is the type of experience you are looking for in a switch. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a budget-friendly option for enthusiasts who appreciate a poppy, clacky sound paired with a smooth feel. This linear switch is ideal for those who prefer an easy-to-press, feathery switch with a bouncy and snappy response. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic brings a new level of innovation to the clicky switch category, combining the classic clicky sound with smoothness and tactile feedback. This switch is described as buttery, resonant, invigorating, and crunchy, providing a different auditory and tactile experience compared to the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro. 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
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Melodic, it becomes apparent that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is especially well-suited for switches that feature RGB lighting, as its translucency allows the light to shine through. In terms of sound, both switches will likely provide a similar experience due to the shared use of polycarbonate in their top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar depth and fullness in sound production. This means that while the top housing may provide a consistent experience between the two switches, the bottom housing will contribute to a slightly different sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Melodic may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer the sharp and crisp sound associated with polycarbonate top housing, but the subtle differences in their nylon bottom housing may provide a unique typing experience. Whether you prefer a fuller, deeper sound or a slightly rounder tone, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Melodic's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. This means that while the Melodic may require a stronger push to trigger a keystroke, both switches will feel similar when fully pressed down. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier push feel of the Melodic for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual 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 Melodic clicky switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Melodic's 4 mm. The Cream Yellow Pro offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize speed and agility in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Melodic's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper actuation point. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Cream Yellow Pro catering to those seeking a shorter travel distance while the Melodic appeals to users looking for a slightly longer keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired level of key response.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a resonant sound profile that is clean, sharp, and immersive, providing a classic clicky sound without sacrificing smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound, as both offer unique auditory experiences.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch provides an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. These characteristics make typing effortless, reduce finger fatigue, and offer a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, with smooth and fluid keystrokes and firm actuation force for a reactive feel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique advantages in sound and feel, appealing to different types of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch boasts a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth tactile feel, the Gateron Melodic switch provides a resonant clicky sound and a buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in sound and feel, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a satisfying combination of poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you appreciate a clicky switch with advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, the Gateron Melodic provides a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. Both switches offer unique experiences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel.
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