Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Magnetic Jade present two distinct yet appealing options, each suited for different typing preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump and bass-heavy auditory feedback, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a satisfying tactile sensation and a somewhat louder typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches excel with their bright and clacky sound profile, making them an ideal pick for users looking to enhance their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard with superior acoustics and a distinctively engaging feedback mechanism. While the Creamy Purple Pros cater to those who crave tactile feedback, the Magnetic Jade switches are tailored for users who prioritize sound and responsiveness. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Magnetic Jade utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This shared material leads to a similar acoustical profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback from their keyboard. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from polycarbonate's translucency, which allows for effective RGB lighting effects. Thus, users can expect a similar visual enhancement from both models when using backlighting, making them appealing choices for those who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance.
In contrast, while the top housings are the same, the bottom housings of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Magnetic Jade are also constructed from nylon. This material is known for its softer properties, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper notes from the polycarbonate top. The nylon's ability to absorb sound results in a more muted bottom-out sound and overall dampens the auditory feedback upon key release. This combination of materials means that while both switches share some acoustic properties, the resulting sound profile will still vary, blending the clarity of the polycarbonate with the richness of the nylon.
Consequently, the overall typing experience on the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Gateron Magnetic Jade will possess unique characteristics due to the interplay of materials. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro will provide a distinctive balance of sharpness and resonance from the polycarbonate top, complemented by the richer, fuller tones of the nylon bottom. Similarly, the Magnetic Jade will offer a comparable experience, where the characteristics of each housing material will impact how users perceive sound and feel when typing. By understanding these interactions between materials, users can make informed choices based on their sound preferences and typing styles, knowing they will achieve similar auditory experiences in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we see both similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 30 grams, making them equally light when it comes to initiating a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro requiring 50 grams to fully bottom out, while the Magnetic Jade demands a slightly heavier 55 grams. This means that while both switches provide easy initial actuation suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Magnetic Jade switch offers a slightly more substantial feel when reaching the bottom of the keystroke. For users who prefer a lighter overall experience, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might gravitate toward the Gateron Magnetic Jade.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we see a notable difference. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, making it a quicker option that is advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade has a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, which can provide a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for its deeper action. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that feels more abrupt and responsive, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the better choice. Conversely, if you appreciate a more traditional and hearty depth in your keystrokes, the Gateron Magnetic Jade would be more suitable. In summary, while both switches cater to specific preferences, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the shorter option, promoting quicker action, whereas the Gateron Magnetic Jade offers a longer, more deliberate feel.
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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches, there are notable distinctions that cater to different auditory preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is known for its loud sound signature, which tends to lean towards a bassier pitch, producing a deep and rich acoustic profile that can be both satisfying and invigorating during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches provide a bright and clacky sound, which lends itself well to a more pronounced auditory feedback that many users find delightful. This clackiness can evoke a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience, offering clarity and crispness in each keystroke. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound can be influenced by other factors, such as the specific keyboard chassis and keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the tactile qualities of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch shine through with a robust tactile bump that delivers a substantial and invigorating sensation with each press. This tactile feedback reinforces the actuation point, making it easier to type and enhancing overall typing confidence. Conversely, the Magnetic Jade switch, while also aiming to provide a superior typing experience, utilizes hall effect technology which can result in a different tactile sensation. Users may find that it offers a unique blend of smoothness combined with satisfying feedback, although specifics about its tactile response aren’t fully elaborated upon. Those seeking varied tactile experiences will thus find both switches appealing in their own right.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is louder and bassier, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more robust auditory experience, while the Magnetic Jade provides a bright, clacky sound profile that many users appreciate. Feel-wise, the V3's pronounced tactile bump offers an invigorating typing experience, while the Magnetic Jade provides smoothness backed by advanced technology. Both switches present distinct advantages, ensuring that whether one prefers a tactile or a more avant-garde typing sensation, there is a fitting option available to enhance the mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch largely depends on your specific preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump and a satisfying, bassier acoustics while typing, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be an excellent choice, especially since its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams allows for quicker actuation, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who appreciate that tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation with a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams and are seeking a bright, clacky sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch can transform your typing into a more dynamic experience. It’s particularly suited for users who are looking for enhanced acoustics and a higher quality overall feel, especially when used in a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style and environment—choose the Creamy Purple Pro if you’re after solid tactile feedback and punchy sound, or opt for the Magnetic Jade for a more refined auditory experience and a distinctive typing sensation.
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