Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Red mechanical keyboard switches, a clear distinction can be made between the two linear switches. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red is known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. The Ink Red switch provides a satisfyingly smooth and crispy sound profile, coupled with effortless typing. While the Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished feel, the Ink Red switch leans towards a neutral and mild experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Red, it is clear that they both prioritize a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. The transparent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red uses a proprietary INK blend for its housing, which offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound without being overly sharp. Both switches aim to provide a distinct sound experience for users, catering to those who enjoy a crisper typing experience.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Red share a common goal of delivering a tactile and responsive typing experience. The polycarbonate used in the V3 Crystal Pro's housing provides a stiff and clear sound profile, while Gateron's INK blend offers a pointed and clacky sound. While the V3 Crystal Pro's housing material is known for its translucent properties and ability to enhance RGB lighting effects, the Gateron Ink Red's housing material focuses on creating a satisfying sound that resonates with users. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that each material contributes differently to the sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch, influenced by the material used, will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound produced when a key is released. In the case of the V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Red, the combination of their respective housing materials offers users a dynamic typing experience that balances the sound and feel of each key press.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar bottom out force of 60 grams. However, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Red's 45 grams. This difference in actuation force means that the Akko V3 Crystal Pro may provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Gateron Ink Red. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gateron Ink Red may be the more suitable option for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Akko V3 Crystal Pro for its faster key presses, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red. In general, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for travel distance and response time.
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 Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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 distinct chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, providing a unique acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is described as having a crispy and clacky sound profile, which is satisfyingly smooth. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, with the Crystal Pro being brighter and chirpier, while the Ink Red has a more neutral sound with a hint of chirpiness. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a silky and mild typing experience, with a polished finish that enhances smoothness and reduces friction. Both switches provide different tactile sensations, with the Crystal Pro feeling bouncy and refined, while the Ink Red offers a gentle typing experience with a sleek finish. The feel of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience and comfort for the user.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Pro has a chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, providing a lively typing experience, while the Ink Red offers a crispy, clacky sound and silky, mild feel for effortless typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches offering a smooth typing experience with their own distinct characteristics. If a user enjoys a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the Crystal Pro would be a suitable choice, while those preferring a clacky sound and silky feel may prefer the Ink Red.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a satisfyingly smooth switch with a crispy and clacky sound profile that is effortless to type on, the Gateron Ink Red might be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, so it comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Make your decision based on what will enhance your typing experience and make it more enjoyable for you.
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