Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Silent Ink Black 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 Silent Ink Black both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is preferred for its silent typing experience, perfect for environments where minimal noise is desired. The Silent Ink Black offers a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. While both switches are categorized as polished and offer a smooth typing experience, they differ in their sound profile and feedback. 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
60g
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
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
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic material, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. While both materials offer a similar high-pitched sound, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate may offer a slightly sharper tone compared to the Silent Ink Black.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches have unique properties that affect the overall sound and feel during keystrokes. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing, like the top housing, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is resonant and clear. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which also adds to the higher-pitched and clacky sound profile of the switch. While both bottom housings offer similar characteristics in terms of sound, they may slightly differ in their overall impact on the typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Silent Ink Black will come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they ultimately deliver similar high-pitched and clear sound profiles. Whether you prefer the sharper tone of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro or the clacky sound of Gateron's INK blend in the Silent Ink Black, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's 60 grams. This lighter actuation force may be preferable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black has a heavier actuation force, which may appeal to individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out force of the V3 Crystal Pro is 60 grams, while the Silent Ink Black's bottom out force is 70 grams. Overall, while both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a lighter typing experience compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize fast response times. However, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing to gamers looking for rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice 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 Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 offers a unique chirpy sound with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch delivers a muted sound profile, perfect for quieter environments. When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is known for its bouncy and polished sensation, offering a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black provides a silky and polished feel, ensuring a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Overall, while the V3 Crystal Pro and the Silent Ink Black switches differ in sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the chirpy sound and bouncy feel of the V3 Crystal Pro or the muted sound and silky feel of the Silent Ink Black, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a quieter typing experience with a cushioned bottom-out feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is the way to go. Consider the environment you'll be using the keyboard in and your preference for sound and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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