Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jwick Ginger Milk mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer a smooth typing experience with unique characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bouncy, chirpy sound profile and a polished feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk switches offer a soft and pastel appearance, with a neutral and buttery typing experience that is both silky smooth and approachable. While the Crystal Pro switch may appeal to those who enjoy a bright and lively sound, the Ginger Milk switch caters to those seeking a more muted and snappy typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Jwick Ginger Milk keyboards both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material choice also results in a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in both keyboards' top housings ensures a consistent sound experience for users looking for a more vibrant typing experience.
However, where the two keyboards differ is in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which further enhances the sharp and clear sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk keyboard features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, creating a unique typing experience compared to the V3 Crystal Pro.
In terms of physical feel, the bottom housing material of a switch has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. While both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Jwick Ginger Milk keyboards share similar polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housing materials provide users with distinct typing experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a sharper and clearer sound profile, while the Ginger Milk keyboard boasts a deeper and fuller sound, catering to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces differ slightly between the two. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk boasts a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This means that the Ginger Milk switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. While the V3 Crystal Pro may be more suitable for those looking for a lighter typing feel for extended use, the Ginger Milk may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the V3 Crystal Pro being lighter and the Ginger Milk being slightly heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches provide a shorter travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may appreciate the faster response times offered by the shorter travel distance, making the Ginger Milk a popular choice for gaming. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its bright and chirpy sound signature, setting it apart with a unique acoustic profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a muted, snappy sound profile which is soft and pastel in nature. When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is renowned for its bouncy and polished switches, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a sleek typing experience. In comparison, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Jwick Ginger Milk linear switches both provide a silky smooth typing experience. While the Crystal Pro offers a chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, the Ginger Milk has a neutral sound and a buttery typing sensation. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either switch can offer a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound signature. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a muted, snappy sound with a silky smooth and approachable push feel, the Ginger Milk would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience desired.