Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options come to mind: the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch that offers a gentle bump without disrupting your typing flow, making it a great choice for those who prefer a subtle tactile sensation. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is a linear switch known for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a pleasing tactile experience for those who enjoy a lively and crisp quality in each keystroke. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown is easy to press and mild, the V3 Piano Pro offers a bouncy and clacky feel with a creamy and polished touch. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, it is evident that they both feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon, being a softer plastic, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches equipped with this material. This means that both keyboards will likely provide a similar experience in terms of the sound produced when keys are pressed down. However, the difference lies in the top housing material, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown boasting a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different auditory experience for users.
The use of polycarbonate in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown's top housing offers a distinct advantage in terms of sound profile compared to the nylon top housing of the Akko V3 Piano Pro. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature leads to a clearer and more resonant sound when typing, which may be preferred by those looking for a crisper sound experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics between the two keyboards showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
While both keyboards share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the difference in top housing material between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Akko V3 Piano Pro highlights the varying sound experiences users can expect. The G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, particularly suitable for RGB lighting aesthetics, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these keyboards may come down to personal preferences in sound profiles, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in shaping the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's lighter 45 grams. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Brown also has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the V3 Piano Pro offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range of force, making them suitable for different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the V3 Piano Pro. The 4.0mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown is considered more traditional, offering a deeper press feeling, while the 3.5mm travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro is slightly shallower. Gamers may prefer the V3 Piano Pro for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who prefer more depth in their key presses may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown for $2.77.
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano 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 G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for its medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. The V3 Piano Pro, on the other hand, is characterized as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, the Piano Pro switches offer a resonant sound profile with a higher pitch, creating an immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro Brown focusing on a medium-high pitch while the V3 Piano Pro excels in producing a crisp and lively sound signature.
Moving on to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a comfortable and low-impact typing experience, enhancing overall typing efficiency and reducing finger fatigue. Described as mild, the G Pro Brown falls in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is known for providing a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The switches offer a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery feel when typing, allowing for effortless keystrokes and a silky typing sensation. Additionally, the V3 Piano Pro features polished switches that result in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro Brown excels in providing a medium-high pitch sound and an easy-to-press, mild tactile feel, perfect for those seeking a subtle tactile sensation. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out with its clacky and resonant sound, along with a bouncy, creamy, and polished typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a more lively and smooth tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Overall, both switches provide quality performance and can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you value a gentle tactile bump and medium-high pitch for auditory feedback, along with a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality, then the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy sound signature with smooth actuation and a spring-like rebound sensation, then the V3 Piano Pro might be more suited to your preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing experience.
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