Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro stand out as excellent options, each offering unique benefits for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is perfect for gamers looking for lightning-fast responsiveness with its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. The vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add to the immersive gaming experience, all while being budget-friendly. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, provides a delightful typing experience with its satisfying tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile. Whether you prioritize gaming performance or typing comfort, both switches have their own strengths. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. While both switches share this top housing material, any differences in sound and feel can likely be attributed to other components like keycaps or springs.
However, where the two switches diverge is in their bottom housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, showcasing a similar sound profile to its counterpart. As a result, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is influenced by the combination of their housing materials.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro demonstrate how different housing materials can impact the sound and feel of a mechanical switch. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their use of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller experience, these switches provide options for users seeking distinct typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them light switches to press down. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 50 grams of force, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro needs 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter overall compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. The lighter actuation force of both switches makes them suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. However, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a bit more resistance, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this comparison, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a shorter travel distance than the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Shorter travel distances are favored by gamers for quicker response times, while longer travel distances provide a more satisfying keypress for some users. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference. Ultimately, while the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches differ, users can expect different results based on their specific needs and typing preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 Silver switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch's sound profile is not specified in the provided information. Sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is noted for its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished attributes, providing a tactile typing sensation that is not overly tactile, with a lively feel and smooth key travel. Each switch provides a unique typing experience based on the described characteristics, catering to different preferences in terms of tactility and keypress feedback.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities, both aim to enhance the typing or gaming experience for users. If an individual prefers a deeper and more bass-heavy sound with smooth and uniform key presses, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if someone is looking for a more tactile and lively typing experience with medium tactility and smooth key travel, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be a good option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it all comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you are a gamer looking for a budget-friendly option that offers lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting, then the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a keyboard enthusiast seeking a delightful typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is the ideal switch for you. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your gaming or typing style. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and playstyles. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you, and enjoy your enhanced keyboard experience with either the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Happy typing or gaming!
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