Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Ink Red offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback on each keystroke, and its bassier, louder sound signature adds an engaging auditory element to typing. This makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate tactile sensations and a more pronounced acoustic experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch, known for its smoother operation and lower actuation force, which caters to a lighter typing style. Its crispy and clacky sound profile enhances the typing experience while allowing for effortless gliding over the keys. The choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference: the Creamy Purple Pro invites a more interactive typing experience, while the Ink Red offers a smoother and quieter endeavor. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Ink Red switches differ significantly, particularly in their top housing. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a crisper and more resonant sound profile. This quality renders it especially suitable for RGB lighting applications, allowing for enhanced visual effects. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which also delivers a pointed, high-pitched sound but with a character that is described as satisfying and even clacky. Thus, while both switches feature higher-pitched sound profiles, the materials used in constructing their top housings result in distinct acoustic qualities.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches present an interesting contrast and a working synergy. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing is recognized for producing a deeper and rounder sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound waves due to its softer plastic nature. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, while still providing a relatively high-pitched character, does not offer the same depth resulting from sound absorption as nylon does. This interplay suggests that the combined effect of the housing materials influences the overall typing experience: the V3 may lean towards a fuller auditory experience while the Ink Red retains a more pronounced clack.
When both switches are engaged, the differences in their designs and materials can be observed in the typing feel and the sound produced upon key release and bottom-out. The nylon bottom of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro likely supports a more rounded typing feel, complementing its polycarbonate top's crisp sound when a key is released. In contrast, the Ink Red's design engenders a snappy feedback with a consistent high-pitched sound profile. Although the two switches employ different materials for their top and bottom housings, both can produce a satisfying sound signature—each creating unique auditory and tactile responses that cater to distinct user preferences for switch feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch to the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, particularly during extended use such as gaming or office work. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial push that some typists find preferable for tactile feedback. Thus, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is ideal for those prioritizing comfort and prolonged usage, the Gateron Ink Red's heavier forces cater to individuals who enjoy a firmer keystroke feel. Overall, these differences indicate that the Akko switch is lighter while the Gateron switch is heavier, serving distinct preferences in the realm of keyboard switches.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance reflects a contrast in tactile experience: the shorter travel of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is designed for quicker response times, making it more suitable for gamers who seek rapid actuation. On the other hand, the Ink Red's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced depth, which some users may find preferable for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for responsiveness and agility, the Akko switch offers that advantage, while the Gateron Ink Red is ideal for those who favor 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 Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 is known for its loud and bass-heavy sound signature, which can be quite invigorating. This robust audio characteristic may appeal to those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a more subdued yet catchy profile, offering a neutral and mildly chirpy sound. While the Ink Reds tend to be quieter than the Creamy Purple Pros due to their linear nature, they still provide a satisfying clicking sensation without overwhelming noise. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches can evoke distinct acoustic experiences, making them versatile for various settings.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is marked by its prominent tactile bump, providing a noticeable feedback that engages typists and enhances the typing experience. This tactile aspect often appeals to those who prefer a more interactive sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red is characterized by its silky smoothness and polished finish, allowing for an effortless typing experience. This combination of smoothness and mild feedback makes the Ink Reds approachable, catering well to both beginners and seasoned typists. Overall, while the Creamy Purple Pro offers a tangible engagement with each keystroke, the Ink Red focuses on smoothness and ease of activation.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Gateron Ink Red offer two distinct yet enjoyable experiences in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches. The Creamy Purple Pro’s loud, bassy sound and engaging tactile feedback contrast with the Ink Red’s chirpy, neutral sound profile and silky smooth feel. Each switch caters to different typing preferences—whether you appreciate the pronounced tactility of the Creamy Purple Pro or the effortless smoothness of the Ink Red, you’ll find that both can deliver satisfying performance, making either a great choice for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, your choice largely depends on your typing preferences and the sound profile you desire. If you enjoy a more tactile experience with pronounced feedback, the Creamy Purple Pro may be the way to go, especially if you appreciate the invigorating bump and deeper sound it provides, making it suitable for a spirited typing style and a more engaging auditory experience. Alternatively, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, particularly suited for prolonged typing sessions or a more neutral environment, the Gateron Ink Red is an excellent choice, thanks to its silky feel and moderate sound profile. The Ink Red’s linear nature can accommodate lighter typists and offers great versatility for both gaming and typing without being overly distracting. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your priorities: whether you lean toward the satisfying tactility and sound of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro or the effortless smoothness and subtlety of the Gateron Ink Red.
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