Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is known for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red is budget-friendly and designed for a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. It also features a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience. While both switches have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches are both made of polycarbonate, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to clearer and more resonant sound characteristics. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the light passes through the housing creating a visually appealing effect. However, while both switches share the same housing material, the design and construction of the switches may differ, leading to variations in feel and sound when typing.
In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which further enhances the sharp and crisp sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, influencing the sound and feel of each keystroke.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housing, the distinction in bottom housing material introduces a unique element to each switch. Whether you prefer the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide a reliable and satisfying typing experience. Regardless of the differences, users can expect a similar level of quality and performance from these two switches.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red's 45 grams, making the V3 Crystal Pro slightly heavier in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams while the G Pro 3.0 Red only needs 50 grams, making the G Pro 3.0 Red the lighter option in this category. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red switch will provide a lighter touch and require less force for typing, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch will offer a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. The 3.8 mm travel distance of the Akko switch provides a quicker response time, making it a favorable choice for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron switch may offer a more satisfying key press experience for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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 Crystal Pro linear switch provides a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, giving a bright and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes without being too loud or too soft. Both switches offer different sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them ultimately depends on personal taste and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback that adds to the overall enjoyment of typing. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch, on the other hand, offers a creamy and mild typing sensation, making it smooth and easy to type on without being too soft or too hard. Both switches provide a polished feel that enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and offering a smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offer users a choice between a bright and chirpy sound versus a neutral and medium-high pitch sound, as well as a bouncy and polished feel versus a creamy and mild typing sensation. While both switches bring their unique qualities to the table, users can expect a smooth typing experience from either switch, with a focus on their personal preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth typing experience with medium-light actuation force, along with the added bonus of bright and vibrant RGB lighting effects, then the G Pro 3.0 Red switch may be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, consider your sound and feel preferences to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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