Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between different tactile experiences, two popular options being the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Melodic. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump and a bass-heavy sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who crave a responsive feel and noteworthy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic revitalizes the clicky switch experience with its innovative designs, offering a satisfying click sound that is both buttery smooth and resonant. This switch caters to users who enjoy a classic clicking sensation combined with recent advancements in smoothness due to features like factory lubing and dual-railed stems. Both switches serve distinct preferences—whether you prefer the tactile, bassy feedback of the Creamy Purple Pro or the invigorating click of the Melodic. 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
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
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
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Melodic feature similar housing materials that effectively shape their sound profiles and aesthetics. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due in part to the natural stiffness of polycarbonate, which fosters a clear and resonant tone. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for users who appreciate RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through, enhancing visual effects. Thus, both switches provide a comparable acoustic experience and visual appeal, making them suitable options for enthusiasts who prioritize clarity and brightness in their typing sound and aesthetics.
When it comes to their bottom housing, both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Melodic employ nylon, a classic material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The characteristics of nylon, being a softer plastic, result in a more muted and rounded sound due to its sound-absorbing qualities. As the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a consistent typing experience across both switches when it comes to the substantial quality provided by nylon. This shared housing material contributes to the unique auditory feedback that differentiates them from others on the market.
Given that both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Melodic switch designs utilize the same materials for their respective top and bottom housings, it is clear that they will yield similar results in overall sound and typing experience. While users may notice subtle differences in individual switch build quality or actuation feel, the fundamental qualities brought forth by polycarbonate and nylon across both models create a cohesive sound profile and tactile experience. Thus, typing enthusiasts can confidently choose either switch without concerns about significant variances, enjoying the benefits provided by their carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming stints without fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch has an unknown actuation force but has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a heavier overall feel that caters to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While the exact actuation force of the Melodic switch is not specified, its higher bottom out force suggests it may require more effort, making it the heavier option compared to the Akko V3. Consequently, typists and gamers seeking a lighter switch for comfort may find the Akko V3 to be more suitable, whereas those in favor of a stronger push would likely prefer the Gateron Melodic.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, a significant difference is evident. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Gateron Melodic features a travel distance of 4 mm, the longer option. This distinction highlights a critical factor in switch preference; those who favor shorter travel distances, like that of the Creamy Purple Pro, often benefit from quicker response times, which is particularly advantageous for gaming. In contrast, the greater travel distance of the Melodic switch may appeal to users who appreciate a more traditional feel with a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus tactile depth.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Creamy Purple Pro offers a loud audio experience characterized by a bassier pitch, making it an enjoyable the auditory presence while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switches present a resonant and crunchy sound profile, described as higher-pitched and sharp, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. This divergence in sound characteristics highlights how the V3 Creamy Purple Pro emphasizes depth and fullness, while the Melodic focuses on clarity and sharpness. Ultimately, both switches deliver a distinctive auditory signature that can enhance the typing experience, yet their sound profiles will appeal to different preferences depending on whether one favors a booming sound or a crisp, clear click.
In terms of tactile feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out due to its large, invigorating tactile bump that provides a substantial feedback sensation with every keystroke. This makes for a snappy and engaging typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile response. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic also offers a unique experience with its buttery feel. This smoother action is complemented by a pronounced feedback mechanism, which gives it an invigorating quality as well. While the V3 excels in delivering a more forceful tactile bump, both switches cater to those seeking a dynamic and satisfying typing experience overall, although they approach it with slightly different emphasis.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Gateron Melodic clicky switch both deliver engaging typing experiences, they differentiate themselves through their sound and feel. The V3’s loud, bassy sound complements its robust tactile feedback, whereas the Melodic caters to those who prefer a clearer, higher-pitched click with smoother keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches can provide a rewarding typing experience tailored to individual preferences, whether one seeks a pronounced tactile feedback or a smoother and more fluid experience with a satisfying click.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a lighter actuation with a pronounced tactile bump, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro will serve you well, especially if you enjoy a bassier sound profile that enhances the tactile feedback. This makes it a strong choice for casual typing, where the invigorating feel can keep you engaged without tiring your fingers too quickly. On the other hand, if you like a more pronounced clicky sound and don’t mind a bit more resistance with the medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Gateron Melodic is an excellent option. Its resonant and crunchy sound, combined with smooth keystrokes, ensures that you experience the classic clicky sensation while typing, making it ideal for those who enjoy that auditory feedback. In short, go for the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for a smoother, tactile experience, or the Gateron Melodic for a richer clicky feel—whichever aligns with your typing style and sound preferences.
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