Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe 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 Lunar Probe both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a bouncy and polished feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe features a dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, along with a smooth linear sensation and a subtle sound signature - ideal for those who prefer a more refined and consistent typing experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe opts for a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro.
While the V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe share polycarbonate top housings, their differences lie in the bottom housing materials. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper sound profile and a more resonant feel upon bottoming out the switches. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper sound profile and a softer feel when typing. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in a varied typing experience between the two switches, with the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizing sharpness and clarity while the Lunar Probe focuses on depth and fullness in sound.
In terms of performance, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Lunar Probe offer distinct typing experiences based on their housing materials. While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a clear, resonant sound, the Lunar Probe's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a deeper, fuller sound with a softer typing feel. Although both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings for sharpness and clarity, the incorporation of nylon in the Lunar Probe's bottom housing provides a unique contrast to the V3 Crystal Pro's all-polycarbonate construction, ultimately offering users a choice between different sound profiles and typing sensations.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro requires an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe offers a lighter feel with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Lunar Probe, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. However, for individuals looking for a lighter typing experience for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Lunar Probe would be the ideal choice. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly longer than the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing feel. If you prefer a more responsive keypress, the Gateron Lunar Probe may be the better choice with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more depth to your keypress, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro might be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 switch offers a unique chirpy sound that distinguishes it from other switches, adding an element of character to each keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its subtle sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience overall. Both switches offer a smooth linear sensation, but the V3 Crystal Pro delivers a slightly more noticeable auditory feedback with its chirpy sound signature.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy and polished, giving it a lively and smooth typing experience. The keys have a spring-like feedback, providing a satisfying rebound when pressed. The use of polycarbonate in the construction of these switches contributes to their polished and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek key travel. While information on the specific feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is not provided, one can expect a similar smoothness and linear sensation as the V3 Crystal Pro, making it a reliable choice for those who prefer a consistent and stable typing experience.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer smooth and linear typing experiences, with the V3 Crystal Pro standing out for its chirpy sound signature and bouncy, polished feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, newcomers to mechanical keyboards can choose between these two switches to find the one that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound, and feel of each switch. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and appreciate stable and consistent keypresses with an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, opt for the Gateron Lunar Probe. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for keypress feel, sound, and force.
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