Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Oil King (V2) 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 Oil King both offer unique qualities worth considering. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch known for its fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound signature that provides a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King is also a linear switch but stands out for its buttery smoothness and sound profile likened to a dark chocolate bar snapping. While the V3 Crystal Pro is characterized by qualities such as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Oil King is known for being 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Bassy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique advantages, 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
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Oil King switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, providing a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, the sound experience of typing on these switches will vary in terms of pitch and clarity.
While the top housings of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Oil King switches offer contrasting sound profiles, their bottom housings also contribute to the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro enhances the sharp and crisp sound profile of the switch, with its stiffness adding to the clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. These differences in bottom housing materials further highlight the distinct sound characteristics of each switch, resulting in a unique typing experience for users.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Oil King switches play a significant role in shaping the typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the Oil King provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and proprietary INK blend bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles. Whether it's the sharpness of polycarbonate or the depth of nylon, users can expect a unique sound and feel from each switch based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Gateron Oil King linear switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the V3 Crystal Pro requires a force of 60 grams, while the Oil King needs 65 grams, making it the heavier option. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing feel with a bit more resistance, the Oil King would be the preferred option. In the end, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, providing a more substantial depth when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the V3 Crystal Pro being shorter and the Oil King being longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for responsiveness versus key depth.
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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its chirpy sound signature due to its fully polycarbonate construction. This unique acoustic profile sets it apart from other switches, offering a bright and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound, reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. This switch provides a deeper and richer sound profile, giving a more mellow tone during key presses. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience. The spring-like feedback from the keys gives a lively feel, while the smooth and refined finish enhances the overall typing sensation. Conversely, the Gateron Oil King switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished. These switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with minimal resistance. Both switches offer a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring a sleek and pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Gateron Oil King linear switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, they both offer a smooth and refined typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro excels in providing a chirpy and bouncy sound with a polished feel, while the Oil King offers a low-pitched and creamy sound with a silky, buttery sensation. Ultimately, both switches are excellent options for those seeking a high-quality linear switch with premium sound and feel qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a keyboard switch. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a dark chocolate bar snapping sound profile and buttery smoothness in typing, then the Gateron Oil King might be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Oil King will depend on your individual taste in keyboard switches.
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