Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Luciola. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch that stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique sound and feel with a bright and chirpy sound signature and silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola, also a linear switch, catches the eye with its glowing feature and offers a smooth and bouncy typing feel, medium heft, and a distinct "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. While the Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Luciola is recognized for being 'Snappy', 'Clacky', 'Chirpy', 'Marbly', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Luciola, one can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, providing a clear and resonant sound. This material is also ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Luciola features Gateron's proprietary INK blend in its top housing, which offers a slightly different sound profile described as pointed and high-pitched, but not overly sharp. Both materials contribute to a satisfying sound experience, albeit with subtle differences in tone and pitch.
When looking at the bottom housing of the switches, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Luciola similarly utilize polycarbonate and the INK blend, respectively. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches will be influenced by the qualities of these materials. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile, while Gateron's INK blend bottom housing will offer a slightly different tone described as clacky. The choice of housing material in the bottom of the switch can also impact the overall typing experience, making it a crucial component to consider when choosing between these two switches.
Overall, the differences between the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Luciola lie in the specific characteristics of polycarbonate and Gateron's INK blend. While both materials offer a clear and resonant sound profile, polycarbonate tends to create a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the INK blend provides a more pointed and slightly less sharp tone. These subtle differences may appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of understanding how housing materials can affect the overall sound and feel of a switch. Ultimately, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Luciola offer premium housing materials that enhance the typing experience, making them excellent choices for those seeking high-quality mechanical switches.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have similar bottom out forces of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance for a satisfying typing experience. The main difference lies in the actuation force, with the V3 Crystal Pro requiring 48 grams compared to the Luciola's 55 grams. This makes the V3 Crystal Pro the lighter option for those who prefer a softer touch when typing, allowing for longer periods of use without fatigue. On the other hand, the Luciola offers a slightly heavier actuation force for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer a medium bottom out force, ensuring a consistent typing experience regardless of the initial actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. However, the V3 Crystal Pro provides a slightly deeper key press compared to the Luciola. This means that for those who prefer a more pronounced key press, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a shallower and quicker key press, the Luciola may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, the V3 Crystal Pro is described as having a chirpy sound signature, giving off a unique squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Luciola switch is described as having a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a chirpier tone and the Luciola providing a more percussive clack.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Crystal Pro is known for its bouncy and polished typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, refined finish. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola switch is described as snappy and buttery, offering super responsive feedback and a smooth, fluid keystroke experience. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant typing experience, with the V3 Crystal Pro focusing on rebound and polish, while the Luciola prioritizes responsiveness and smoothness.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, while the Luciola switch boasts a medium heft, smooth and bouncy feel, and a clacky sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience for users, providing options for those who prefer a more unique sound profile or a responsive and buttery feel. Whether choosing the V3 Crystal Pro or the Luciola, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that caters to their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that offers a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, then the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer switches that glow in the dark and provide a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a hollow sound profile, then the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully when choosing between these two switches to ensure that you find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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