Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Brown offer unique experiences to suit different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its linear switches made entirely of polycarbonate, which contributes to a bouncy and chirpy sound profile, along with a silky smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown features tactile switches with a single-stage spring for a more classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. Both switches prioritize performance and aesthetics, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a bright and cheerful typing experience and the Jupiter Brown providing a blend of tradition and innovation. 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
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile and is favored for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. While both switches share this common top housing material, the V3 Crystal Pro differs in its bottom housing, also made of polycarbonate, while the Jupiter Brown features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing on the Jupiter Brown provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and increased sound absorption compared to polycarbonate.
The choice of housing materials in these switches greatly impacts the sound and feel of typing on them. With the V3 Crystal Pro, the qualities of the polycarbonate bottom housing are more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The stiffness of the polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience, with a softer and duller sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. The differences in bottom housing materials showcase how material selection can significantly influence the overall typing experience.
While the top housing materials of the V3 Crystal Pro and the Jupiter Brown are the same, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer their own unique typing experience based on the properties of their respective housing materials. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Jupiter Brown, each switch caters to different preferences in typing sound and feel. Ultimately, the housing materials in these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams while the Jupiter Brown needs 70 grams, making the latter switch heavier in this aspect. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch, while the Jupiter Brown offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall feel when using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing experience and the desired weight of key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, there is a slight difference in their measurements. The V3 Crystal Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Jupiter Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown provides a slightly longer travel distance which may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the V3 Crystal Pro being the shorter option and the Jupiter Brown being the longer option. Overall, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the depth and responsiveness of the key press.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it's clear that the Crystal Pro offers a chirpy and unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Jupiter Brown switch is not specifically mentioned, indicating that it may have a more traditional or subdued sound. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Crystal Pro is described as bouncy and polished, offering a lively typing experience with smooth key travel. In comparison, the Jupiter Brown switch is characterized as mild, polished, and stepped, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with a two-stage tactile feel. Both switches prioritize smooth key travel and reduced friction, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer attractive qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Crystal Pro stands out for its bright and chirpy sound, bouncy feel with smooth key travel, and fully polycarbonate construction. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown provides a more classic tactile feel with a medium-heavy weight, high-precision molds, and enhanced softer backlight effects. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect satisfying results from either of these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, along with reliable performance and aesthetic appeal, the Gateron Jupiter Brown may be the better choice. Keep in mind the different sound and feel characteristics of each switch, such as the bouncy and polished nature of the V3 Crystal Pro compared to the mild, polished, and stepped qualities of the Jupiter Brown. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and versatility, so choose the one that best suits your preferences and typing needs.
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