Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, both linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black is renowned for its heavy and substantial typing experience, with a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced feel. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, boasting a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and precise keystrokes. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the V3 Silver Pro provides a pleasing bassy sound with an easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on the user's preferences and needs. 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
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a unique combination of housing materials with its INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing. The INK blend top housing creates a satisfying, high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, while the POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing provides a unique sound profile that complements the clacky sound of the INK blend top housing. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Silver Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a more rounded typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Black focuses on creating a contrast between the top and bottom housings to achieve a diverse sound profile, the Akko V3 Silver Pro opts for consistency with its nylon material used throughout.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Silver Pro will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a unique combination of materials for a varied sound profile, while the V3 Silver Pro ensures consistency with its polycarbonate and nylon housing materials. Both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, but their housing materials play a key role in determining the sound produced when typing on these mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, some distinct differences can be observed. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, creating a more lightweight typing feel. Those who prefer a more substantial push when typing may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black, while individuals in search of a smoother and lighter typing experience may opt for the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a heavier or lighter actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Akko V3 Silver Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the individual.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
The Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is often described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound, sharp and crisp when activated. These sound profiles cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a more pronounced auditory feedback while the V3 Silver Pro presenting a brighter and sharper tone.
Moving on to the feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with a gentle resistance that is not overwhelming. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch boasts an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate keys. Additionally, it is described as creamy and feathery, enhancing the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a low-impact feel ideal for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities tailored to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky sound and a creamy, silky typing feel, ideal for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro offers a high-pitched sound and an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery feel, catering to gamers and individuals who prioritize quick and effortless keystrokes. Overall, both switches excel in their respective qualities, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users based on their preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a balanced feel and medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a creamy or silky typing experience, this switch could provide the smoothness you desire. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a light switch with easy-to-press keys and a pleasing bassy sound, the V3 Silver Pro might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize key factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feel.
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