Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Mars present two intriguing yet distinct options. The V3 Crystal Pro switches are celebrated for their fully polycarbonate construction, which not only contributes to their bright and chirpy sound but also offers a luxurious and polished typing experience. With a tactile feedback characterized as "bouncy," these switches cater to those who prioritize auditory and sensory satisfaction during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switches introduce a unique design that merges a POK stem with a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM. This innovative construction aims for a smooth operation, though exact sound characteristics are less defined. While the Crystal Pro might be ideal for users seeking a lively auditory feedback and a tactile touch, the Mars may appeal to those desiring a seamless and quiet 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Mars switch housings significantly differ in the materials used for their construction, which results in contrasting sound profiles. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This quality makes it particularly appealing for those who favor an articulate typing experience, especially in contexts where RGB lighting is used, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects. In contrast, the Gateron Mars utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a classic choice noted for its softer structure. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more noise, creating a more muted and rounded auditory experience.
The bottom housing materials further contribute to the sound distinctions between the two switches. The V3 Crystal Pro's bottom housing is also made of polycarbonate, reinforcing its already enhanced sharper sound profile by maintaining consistency throughout the switch. This coherent use of polycarbonate promotes an overall clear and resonant typing experience. Conversely, the Mars features a POM bottom housing, a material that offers a unique sound that leans towards deeper and more muted characteristics. While both switches exhibit unique auditory traits, they ultimately will yield different sound qualities: the V3 Crystal Pro will present a sharper response, while the Mars provides a subdued, pleasing tone.
Given that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the sound experiences are divided. The qualities from the polycarbonate and nylon materials in the top housing primarily influence the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing components dictate the sound and feel during the actuation. While the V3 Crystal Pro’s consistent use of polycarbonate may produce a crisper result throughout, the Gateron Mars’s combination of nylon and POM provides a richer and fuller auditory experience that can appeal to different preferences. Ultimately, users can expect varied sound feedback from their typing experience based on these material choices, with the ability to choose a switch that best suits their desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The V3 Crystal Pro requires an actuation force of 48 grams, while the Gateron Mars has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may find the Mars switch more comfortable. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a firmer feedback when fully pressed down. Conversely, the bottom out force for the Mars switch is not available, making it difficult to compare the two directly in this aspect. Nonetheless, it can be inferred that the V3 Crystal Pro is the heavier option overall due to its greater actuation and bottom out forces, offering a more substantial feel for those who appreciate a stronger push when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, we find that they differ slightly, with the V3 Crystal Pro featuring a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Mars has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference suggests that gamers seeking faster response times might prefer the Mars switch due to its reduced distance, which allows for quicker key actuation. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro, as its longer travel distance of 3.8 mm provides a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference: the Gateron Mars caters well to enthusiasts favoring speed, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro appeals to users who appreciate a deeper keystroke.
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 Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches are distinguished by their bright and chirpy acoustic signature, which adds a unique character to the typing experience. This chirpy quality produces a slight squeak that sets them apart from many other switches, creating an engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the sound profile of the Gateron Mars switches is unknown; however, it’s essential to remember that the final sound output can be significantly influenced by the keyboard design, type of housing, the material of the keycaps, and other factors.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offers a delightful typing experience characterized by its bouncy and polished nature. The bouncy feedback provides a spring-like sensation, allowing for a lively and dynamic feel that promotes quick and responsive typing. The polished finish enhances the smoothness of the key travel, reducing friction and contributing to an overall refined experience. The Gateron Mars switches, however, do not have a specified feel profile available, making it challenging to directly compare their tactile qualities with those of the Crystal Pro.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switches excel in both sound and feel, providing a distinct chirpy auditory experience alongside a responsive and smooth typing sensation. The unique properties of their polycarbonate construction play a significant role in these qualities. While the Gateron Mars switches remain a mystery in terms of their sound and feel characteristics, achieving a similar overall typing experience may depend on finding a switch that balances the right materials and design elements. Ultimately, choosing the right switch will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities a user is seeking in their mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and the specific experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams that provides a bouncy and polished feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is likely your best bet. Its unique polycarbonate construction results in a chirpy sound profile, making it an excellent choice if you appreciate auditory feedback alongside a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you're leaning towards innovative design and perhaps more subtle acoustic characteristics, you might want to explore the Gateron Mars switches, known for their POK stem and housing materials. While detailed sound and feel descriptions for the Mars are lacking, their distinct materials may offer a different sensation that could resonate with your typing style, especially if you aim for a quieter and potentially more muted typing experience. In the end, consider what aspects you prioritize: if sound and a lively feel are essential, go with the V3 Crystal Pro; if you’re curious about unique designs and want to experiment, give Gateron Mars a try.
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