Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow presents a fascinating study in contrasts. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is a tactile switch that offers a pronounced, invigorating tactile bump that many users find satisfying, accompanied by a loud, bass-heavy sound signature that adds a dynamic auditory element to typing. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy feedback with each keystroke and appreciate a more traditional, tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch that stands out for its budget-friendly qualities and smooth, bouncy feel. Users can expect a higher-pitched clacky sound profile when using this switch, which is ideal for those who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience without the tactile feedback of a bump. Each switch has its unique strengths: the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro caters to tactile enthusiasts, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow appeals to those seeking a smooth, responsive feel at a competitive price. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow share striking similarities in their top housing materials, both using polycarbonate. The choice of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is largely due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate that allows for a more resonant sound, making each keystroke feel distinct and pronounced. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting, as it effectively allows the illumination to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the keyboard. With both switches utilizing similar materials for their top housings, users can expect comparable auditory experiences when typing, characterized by a bright and resonant sound.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilize nylon, a material known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's inherently softer characteristics lend themselves to producing a duller and rounder sound, which differs significantly from the higher-pitched tones created by the polycarbonate top housing. This combination of materials means that while both switches offer enhanced sound responsiveness from the top, the overall acoustic experience shifts depending on the bottom housing. The deeper sound produced by the nylon bottom gives each switch a more rounded auditory feel, rounding out the sharpness of the polycarbonate.
When pressing down on these switches, users will experience a distinct interplay between the different housing materials. The nylon bottom housing will dominate the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to that deeper sound signature unique to switches featuring softer materials. Conversely, the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing will be more pronounced upon releasing a key, providing that crisp sound that many typists appreciate. Even with the shared top housing material, the different bottom housings ensure that users enjoy a rich and versatile typing experience that balances the sharpness of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon. Overall, while both switch types offer similar sound traits due to the polycarbonate top, the nylon bottom housing distinctly influences the comprehensive auditory profile, leading to a well-rounded user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, notable distinctions are evident in both actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which can provide a more comfortable typing experience, particularly for extended sessions. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for tactile feedback. As a result, individuals looking for a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming might gravitate towards the Akko option, while those who appreciate a firmer push would likely favor the Gateron switch. Overall, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is significantly lighter, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's medium-heavy characteristics provide a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in feel and responsiveness. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, making it the shorter option, which aligns with contemporary trends favoring quicker response times, especially among gamers. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm, offering a more traditional and deeper feel that some users might prefer for a more deliberate typing experience. While the shorter travel of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro can enhance responsiveness, the longer travel of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a satisfying depth that may appeal to those who dislike abrupt key presses. Overall, if you seek a swifter reaction, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the optimal choice, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch delivers a pronounced auditory experience characterized by a loud sound signature with a bassier tone. This substantial sound can be quite satisfying for enthusiasts who appreciate a more robust auditory feedback, making every keystroke feel significant. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch produces a sharp and crisp sound profile that is distinctly higher-pitched. This resonant quality results in a clean and clear auditory experience, ideal for users who prefer a less overwhelming sound while typing. It's worth noting that the overall sound will also vary depending on the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is known for its invigorating tactile bump, which creates a distinct tactile feedback upon actuation. This tactile nature can enhance typing accuracy and provide a more engaging experience for users who enjoy a noticeable response. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches exhibit a polished and creamy feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Their creamy texture allows for effortless gliding of fingers across the keys, providing a silky sensation. The factory lubing or special materials used contribute to reduced friction and a more straightforward keystroke compared to the tactile feedback of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro.
Considering both switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow exhibit unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Creamy Purple Pro appeals to users who favor a loud, tactile experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow caters to those who prefer a smooth, linear action with a crisp sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on whether one values tactile feedback and a bassy sound or prefers the smoothness and higher-pitch feedback of linear switches. Both options provide distinctive experiences that can enhance a typist's enjoyment based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you favor a tactile response that provides a noticeable bump at the actuation point and enjoy a deeper, bassier sound, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent choice, particularly for typing tasks or gaming scenarios where feedback is essential. Its lighter actuation force of 50 grams allows for speed and comfort during prolonged use, making it suitable for those who prefer a more gentle touch. On the other hand, if you are seeking a smooth, linear typing experience with a reliable and bouncy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, with its medium-heavy 67 grams force, becomes the switch of choice. Its high-pitched sound profile offers a clean, sharp auditory feedback that many find satisfying, and the polished, creamy nature of the switch allows for a fluid typing motion, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who prioritize quick keystrokes without the interruption of tactile bumps. Ultimately, the decision should reflect your own typing style and sound sensitivity, ensuring that your keyboard contributes positively to your overall experience.
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