Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is known for its fully polycarbonate construction, which creates a bright and chirpy sound signature, offering a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver switches are all-POM with a short travel distance for lightning-fast actuation, providing a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. While the Crystal Pro may appeal to those seeking a bouncy and polished typing experience, the Smoothie Silver may attract those looking for quick actuation with a thocky sound. 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
3.40 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 Silver, we can see that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This means that both switches will offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of both switches. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Smoothie Silver have different materials. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which will contribute to a sharp, crisp sound profile similar to its top housing. This means that the overall typing experience with the V3 Crystal Pro will have consistency in sound and feel. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing will provide a deeper and more muted sound profile, offering a different typing experience compared to its top housing. As a result, the Smoothie Silver may have a more varied sound and feel when typing.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Smoothie Silver play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound, the Smoothie Silver stands out with its unique POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. The difference in bottom housing materials also contributes to a varied typing experience between the two switches, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a more consistent sound and feel throughout typing sessions. Overall, users can choose between the switches based on their preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Crystal Pro is also heavier at 60 grams, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Smoothie Silver due to its lighter actuation force, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer a medium weight experience overall, providing a balance between responsiveness and typing comfort. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly faster actuation on the Smoothie Silver switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 offers a bright and chirpy sound signature due to its fully polycarbonate construction. This material choice also contributes to a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch features a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, thanks to its all-POM construction and short travel distance for quick actuation.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy and polished. The bouncy nature provides a spring-like feedback, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch ensures reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. The feel of the Smoothie Silver switch is unknown, but based on its smoothness and feather-light touch, users can expect a responsive and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch provides a thocky sound and smooth, feather-light touch, catering to users who prioritize quick actuation and smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, you should choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro if you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound signature, a silky smooth typing experience, and a medium bottom out force of 60 grams. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Smoothie Silver if you prefer a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, a feather-light touch, and a switch with no specified bottom out force. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value the unique sound and feel characteristics offered by the V3 Crystal Pro or the lightning-fast actuation and lightweight design of the Smoothie Silver.
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