Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Black V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. The V3 Crystal Pro is hailed for its unique fully polycarbonate construction, which results in a bright and chirpy sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that boasts a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, making it a long-time community favorite. While the Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, the Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched and bassy sound. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Black V2 feature unique options. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is relatively stiff, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 incorporates a proprietary INK blend top housing, which delivers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of keypress feedback.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the V3 Crystal Pro continues to use polycarbonate, maintaining its reputation for a sharp and clear sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the resonant qualities of the switch when combined with the top housing material. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which complements the top housing's characteristics by contributing to the overall sound profile. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the switch when it comes to bottoming-out, adding to the overall typing experience.
Considering the impact of housing materials on keypress feedback, it is essential to acknowledge the unique qualities that the top and bottom housings bring to each switch. While the V3 Crystal Pro and the Ink Black V2 may differ in their respective materials, the splitting of qualities between the top and bottom housing ensures a balanced typing experience. The choice between polycarbonate and INK blend materials will ultimately come down to personal preference, as each offers its distinctive sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharp and crisp sound profile with polycarbonate or a clacky and high-pitched feel with the INK blend, both switches provide a customizable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 48 grams, compared to the 60 grams actuation force of the Ink Black V2. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Crystal Pro requiring 60 grams and the Ink Black V2 requiring 70 grams. This means that while the V3 Crystal Pro provides a lighter touch for users who prefer less resistance during typing, the Gateron Ink Black V2 offers a slightly heavier actuation force for a more pronounced typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Crystal Pro for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Ink Black V2 for a more tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly shorter than the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Crystal Pro being on the shorter end and the Ink Black V2 being on the longer end. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Akko V3 Crystal Pro due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron Ink Black V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bright and chirpy sound signature, setting it apart with a unique acoustic profile that adds a touch of character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches have a chirpy sound quality, but the Crystal Pro leans towards a brighter tone while the Ink Black V2 offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. Ultimately, the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is characterized by a bouncy and polished sensation. With a spring-like feedback and smooth finish, these switches provide a lively and refined typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches share the polished characteristic, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for a comfortable typing session.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Pro stands out with its bright and chirpy sound, along with bouncy and polished feel, while the Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched and bassy sound, paired with a mild and polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a smooth typing experience that can be enhanced further by selecting the appropriate keyboard and keycap combination. Ultimately, whether choosing the Crystal Pro or the Ink Black V2, users can expect a premium linear switch experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch with its fully polycarbonate construction would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is the way to go. The decision between these two switches ultimately comes down to your preference in sound and feel, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a bouncy and polished feel, while the Ink Black V2 gives a mild and polished typing experience. Choose accordingly based on your desired sound profile and tactile feedback preferences.
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