Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their unique characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro is renowned 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 Smoothie stands out for being an all-POM switch that offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, all while breaking the price barrier. Each switch has its own set of qualities that make it desirable, from the bouncy and polished feel of the V3 Crystal Pro to the buttery and creamy touch of the Gateron Smoothie. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Smoothie, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housing. This similarity means that both switches will likely produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. However, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers the added benefit of translucency for RGB lighting, while the Smoothie's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. This distinction in sound profiles may appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Moving on to the bottom housing, we see a similar trend where the V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate while the Smoothie opt for POM. Both materials impact the sound profile of the switch, with polycarbonate offering a sharper and clearer sound and POM providing a more pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side. This difference in sound characteristics between the bottom housings of the two switches may influence the overall typing experience for users, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing material.
Considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound profile of a switch, it is interesting to note how each material contributes different qualities to the typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing creates a resonant and clear sound profile, the Smoothie's POM housing offers a more muted and unique sound experience. This highlights the importance of selecting a switch with housing materials that align with personal preferences for sound and typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the V3 Crystal Pro and the Smoothie will depend on whether one prefers a crisper sound profile with translucency for RGB lighting or a deeper and more muted sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Smoothie's lighter 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Crystal Pro is also heavier at 60 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with slightly higher force requirements both for actuation and bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Smoothie may be the better choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Smoothie's 3.6 mm. The V3 Crystal Pro falls within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while the Smoothie offers a slightly deeper feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches provide a tactile feel when pressed, but the V3 Crystal Pro may offer a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 renowned for its bright and chirpy sound signature, providing a unique acoustic experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying, paired with a low-pitched and subdued tone. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the V3 Crystal Pro leaning towards a brighter sound and the Smoothie offering a deeper and more mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is known for its bouncy and polished typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. On the contrary, the Gateron Smoothie is praised for its buttery, creamy, and silky keystroke feel, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a smooth typing experience, with the V3 Crystal Pro focusing on a bouncier feel and the Smoothie delivering a more fluid and uniform typing experience.
Overall, while each switch offers its own unique sound and feel qualities, users can expect a top-tier typing experience from both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound brightness and key feel. If a user enjoys a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the V3 Crystal Pro would be the ideal pick. On the other hand, for those seeking a thocky sound and a buttery smooth keystroke, the Gateron Smoothie would be a perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches are designed to provide a premium typing experience, ensuring satisfaction for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force that offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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