Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, we see two linear switches that offer unique experiences for users. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is ideal for budget-conscious enthusiasts looking for a poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel, while the North Pole V2 provides a gummy, muted sound profile with a chewy typing feel. Both switches offer a bouncy and polished tactile experience, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro being easy-to-press and feathery, while the North Pole V2 is creamy and subdued. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron North Pole V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which results in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. In terms of aesthetics, both switches offer a sleek and modern look with their clear polycarbonate top housings.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housings. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The choice of bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing.
Overall, while both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro sets itself apart with its nylon bottom housing, which enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users may appreciate the differences in housing materials between these two switches. However, if a consistent sound profile is desired throughout the typing experience, sticking with a switch that utilizes the same housing material for both the top and bottom is key.
Weight
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is lighter with a bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the North Pole V2's heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a more moderate typing experience with its medium actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy bottom out force, catering to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, the Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Cream Yellow Pro would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it ideal for gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Cream Yellow Pro being better suited for speed and the North Pole V2 for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 and clacky sound that adds vibrancy to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a subdued and muted sound profile, creating a more subtle typing environment. Both switches offer their unique auditory qualities, with the Cream Yellow Pro being more lively and the North Pole V2 offering a quieter and more understated typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the switches are described as feathery and bouncy, offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch is known for its gummy and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation that makes typing feel like gliding across the keys with ease. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Cream Yellow Pro focusing on light actuation and the North Pole V2 emphasizing smoothness.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both cater to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a satisfying typing experience. The Cream Yellow Pro brings a poppy and clacky sound coupled with an easy-to-press and bouncy feel, ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a subdued yet satisfying sound along with a gummy and creamy typing feel, creating a smoother and more luxurious sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but both switches promise a quality typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more pronounced tactile feedback with a poppy sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a gummy typing feel with a muted sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 could be the switch for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision.
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