Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow both offer unique qualities to suit different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is applauded for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow stands out for its shorter travel and a typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, boasting a pleasant smoothness and clackiness. While the Crystal Pro switch is known for being 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Ink Yellow switch is described as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. With these distinct characteristics, each switch caters 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Yellow, it is evident that both switches utilize unique materials that influence the sound profile of the key presses. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound profile. Similarly, the Ink Yellow utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both materials produce distinct sound profiles, they each offer a satisfying auditory experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow continue to demonstrate their unique qualities. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to the sharp and crisp sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Yellow maintains a high-pitched and satisfying sound profile that is not overly sharp. Despite their differences in material, both bottom housings play a crucial role in determining the overall feel and sound of the key presses, providing users with a tactile and auditory experience that complements the switch's performance.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow differ in their housing materials, both switches effectively utilize their respective materials to offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro creates a sharp and resonant sound, while the INK blend housing of the Ink Yellow delivers a satisfying clacky sound. Regardless of the differences in material, both switches ultimately provide users with a high-quality typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall performance of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Crystal Pro requiring 60 grams and the Ink Yellow needing 67 grams. This means that while the Crystal Pro provides a lighter initial press, both switches will require a similar amount of force when fully pressed down. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Crystal Pro for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Ink Yellow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Ink Yellow has a shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the V3 Crystal Pro might be preferred by those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so users should consider their personal preferences when choosing between the two. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth 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 Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its chirpy and bright sound signature, giving it a unique acoustic quality that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a more neutral sound profile, with a slight clackiness that adds a crisp and percussive element to its sound. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the V3 Crystal Pro leaning towards a cheerier tone while the Ink Yellow provides a more versatile and moderate sound suitable for various settings.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, with a spring-like feedback that gives the keys a lively feel. The smooth and refined finish of the switch enhances the overall typing experience, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a mild and polished feel, catering to those who prefer a gentler typing experience with a safe, middle-ground zone of characteristics. Both switches prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience, with slight variations in feedback and rebound.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch both offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its chirpy sound and bouncy feel, while the Ink Yellow provides a neutral sound with a hint of clackiness and a mild typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a smooth and polished typing experience that ensures a comfortable and enjoyable time at the keyboard. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with either switch offering a high-quality performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience with a shorter travel that is smooth and clacky, the Ink Yellow switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and needs.
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