Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Gazzew LT present two compelling yet distinct options, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump and loud sound signature that leans towards the bassier end of the spectrum, making it a fantastic choice for typists who enjoy feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the Gazzew LT switches, known for their enticing lilac hue and "linear thocky" characteristics, provide a smooth typing experience complemented by a deep, resonant sound that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback without the tactile bump. The choice between these two switches boils down to individual preferences: if you crave tactile responsiveness and an auditory punch, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be your ideal pick; however, if you prefer a seamless glide and a rich sound profile, the Gazzew LT could be just what you need. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gazzew LT, notable differences emerge in both the top and bottom housing elements. The Akko V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its stiffness and translucency. This design contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it particularly advantageous for users who prioritize a more vibrant acoustical response. The clear nature of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetics in RGB setups, allowing for effective light diffusion. In contrast, the Gazzew LT employs a proprietary "boba plastic" blend for its top housing, which results in a softer feel and a distinctly rich and deep sound profile. This material’s softer characteristics contrast with polycarbonate’s rigidity, influencing the tonal qualities of the sound emitted when the key is released.
Diving deeper into the bottom housing, both switches exhibit similarities in their material compositions, yet the acoustic outcomes significantly differ. The Akko V3 features a nylon bottom housing, a traditional choice known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a fuller and deeper sound profile. This softness means that the typing experience is more muted, resulting in a rounder auditory feedback when keys are bottomed out. Meanwhile, the Gazzew LT uses its proprietary "boba plastic" for the bottom housing as well, which similarly contributes to a rich, deep sound. Despite both utilizing soft materials, the nuances of each blend can lead to variations in overall acoustic properties, affecting the tactile feel and frequencies represented during typing.
In synthesizing the experiences provided by these two switch designs, one can predict that despite the differences in top housing materials—polycarbonate versus Gazzew's blend—both switches achieve a satisfying auditory experience when bottoming out keys. For users who appreciate a deep sound profile, both switches will deliver rich acoustics, thanks to their soft bottom housing materials. However, the sharper top housing of the Akko V3 and the softer top of the Gazzew LT imply that the sound upon releasing a key will differ, catering to varied user preferences in acoustic feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will revolve around personal preferences for sound clarity versus fullness, as well as the desired aesthetic effects in use.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an ideal option for those who favor a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gazzew LT switch presents a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, though its actuation force is unspecified. This suggests that the LT switch may provide a heavier and more substantial feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more resistant push. Ultimately, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter switch, while the Gazzew LT is on the heavier side, catering to different user preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is evident that they differ in their design. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, making it a shallower switch favorable for those seeking quicker response times, particularly gamers who benefit from a shorter actuation. In contrast, the Gazzew LT boasts a travel distance of 3.2 mm, providing a slightly deeper feel that may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Thus, if you lean towards a more responsive option, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro with its 3 mm travel distance would be preferable, while the Gazzew LT is the longer switch at 3.2 mm for those who appreciate a deeper 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 Gazzew LT 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches are known for their loud, bassy signature, providing a significantly pronounced auditory response during key presses. This quality results in a deep, resonant tone that can be quite satisfying, especially for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switches are celebrated for their “thocky” auditory experience, characterized by a deep and rich sound that evokes a satisfying thud with each keystroke. While both switches emphasize low-pitched, bass-heavy tones, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro leans towards a louder output, whereas the LT offers a more refined thocky experience, combining resonance with a snug, pleasant depth.
When examining the feel of these switches, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts a large tactile bump that enhances the typing experience, giving users distinct tactile feedback. This pronounced tactile response allows typists to feel each keypress more vividly, providing an engaging experience that caters to both typing and gaming. Conversely, the Gazzew LT switches focus on a seamless glide, which translates to a smoother experience without tactile bumps. This smoothness, combined with their linear nature, allows for quick, uninterrupted keystrokes, making them ideal for users seeking a quieter typing experience without discernible feedback.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Gazzew LT switches bring distinctive sound and feel qualities to the mechanical keyboard experience. The Creamy Purple Pro offers loud and bass-heavy auditory feedback with a pronounced tactile bump, making it appealing for those who enjoy strong tactile sensations during typing. Meanwhile, the LT focuses on a more subdued yet resonant thock, providing a smooth, uninterrupted experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, but both switches excel in their respective domains, giving users the potential for a satisfying keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile experience with a satisfying bump and a lower-pitched sound that gives a sense of engagement while typing, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is likely the better option for you. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a lighter actuation force, making it suitable for long typing sessions with minimal finger fatigue, especially if you enjoy the auditory feedback of its loud, bassy sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a heavier bottom-out force, the Gazzew LT is an excellent choice. The LT's deep, thocky sound provides a richer auditory experience that many find appealing, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios where precision is key. Ultimately, consider what aspects of switch feel and sound resonate with you more—whether it’s the tactile feedback and lighter touch of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro or the buttery-smooth response and thocky audio signature of the Gazzew LT. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
