Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Type S mechanical keyboard switches, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and what specific features you prioritize in a switch. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S boasts a weightier keystroke and a pleasingly balanced sound signature, leaning towards a deeper acoustic experience. While the Akko switch may appeal to budget-conscious enthusiasts looking for a lively typing experience, the Gateron Type S caters to those who prefer a more subdued yet substantial keystroke. 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Type S switches both bring unique qualities to the typing experience. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiff nature which enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Type S's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's top housing is ideal for RGB lighting with its translucency, the Type S's nylon top housing creates a more subdued aesthetic.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Type S utilize nylon material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. The similarities in the bottom housing material of both switches may lead to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, despite any differences in the top housing material.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes apparent that each material plays a significant role in the sound produced by the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. With the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, and the Gateron Type S's nylon top and bottom housing, users can expect a mix of sharper and crisper sounds from the top housing and deeper, fuller sounds from the bottom housing, providing a dynamic typing experience based on the combination of housing materials utilized.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 50 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also has a lighter touch at 60 grams, while the Type S is heavier at 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range for actuation force, but the Type S leans towards the medium-heavy side for bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter keystroke for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gateron Type S for a firmer push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Type S has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Type S. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type S may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Type S comes in at $4.70 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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a poppy and clacky sound profile that caters to those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S provides a more neutral and subdued sound signature that leans towards a deeper acoustic experience. Both switches offer pleasing sound qualities, but the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be more suited for those who prefer a livelier typing experience, while the Type S is better for those looking for a more subtle sound profile.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for its easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and snappy qualities, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience. These switches are designed to reduce finger fatigue and provide a comfortable typing feel, making them ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, information on the Gateron Type S's feel is not provided. Based on the available information, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro seems to offer a more varied and versatile typing experience in terms of feel.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Type S switches have their unique sound and feel qualities. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro excels in providing a vibrant and tactile typing experience with its poppy sound and smooth feel, while the Gateron Type S offers a more neutral sound profile and weightier keystrokes. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of quality, whether they opt for the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the Gateron Type S.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter keystroke with a poppy and clacky sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro with a 60g bottom-out force might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a neutral and deeper acoustic sound, the Gateron Type S with a 65g bottom-out force could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel and sound signature.
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