Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Oil King mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly option that provides a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, perfect for those seeking a vibrant auditory experience and a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King stands out for its buttery smoothness and dark chocolate-like sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a low-pitched, silky feel. 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
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Oil King switches both play a crucial role in the sound profile they produce. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with RGB lighting capabilities. On the other hand, the Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro focuses on clarity and resonance, the Oil King emphasizes a more rounded and dull sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Oil King also differ significantly. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. In contrast, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. This difference in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Overall, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Oil King switches have varying housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate and nylon materials of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro create a sharp and clear sound, ideal for those who prefer a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Oil King's nylon top housing and proprietary INK blend bottom housing provide a deeper, fuller, and clackier sound profile, catering to users looking for a more rounded and distinctive typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is lighter in both categories. The Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, with the Oil King leaning slightly towards the heavier side. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cream Yellow Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may opt for the Oil King for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Oil King switch. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more tactile and deep key press may opt for the Gateron Oil King with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy and clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch presents a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Cream Yellow Pro being more vibrant and the Oil King offering a darker and richer sound.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch is said to be creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing sensation. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, with the Cream Yellow Pro focusing on light actuation force and responsiveness, while the Oil King emphasizes a silky and seamless keystroke experience.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow Pro provides a more vibrant and poppy sound with an easy-to-press and bouncy feel, the Oil King delivers a darker and richer sound with a creamy and silky typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound profile and typing feel, users can achieve satisfying results with either switch, ensuring a enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a poppy, clacky sound with a decent smoothness, then the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and crave a buttery smooth typing experience reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, then the Oil King switch might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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