Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out for its lightning-fast responsiveness and budget-friendly pricing, making it an excellent choice for gamers looking for a competitive edge. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro is praised for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a satisfying tactile experience for users. 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
3.50 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
Nylon
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 spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to stiffer plastics. While both switches share this characteristic in their bottom housing material, the impact on the overall typing experience may differ slightly based on other factors such as keycap material or keyboard construction.
On the other hand, when looking at the top housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 Silver and V3 Piano Pro, they diverge significantly. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffer nature leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with clear housings and RGB lighting. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. These differences in top housing material can significantly impact the acoustic experience of each switch.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Akko V3 Piano Pro share a nylon bottom housing material, their top housings vary in terms of material and sound characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for clear housings and RGB lighting, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The bottom housing material primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the V3 Piano Pro. For those who prefer a more effortless typing feel and lighter touch, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the preferable choice. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. The slightly longer travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro may provide a slightly more substantial keypress feel compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gateron switch, while those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Akko switch. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience, with the main difference being the slight variation in travel distance.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is characterized by a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, with a lower frequency range resembling the depth associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is described as clacky and resonant, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched profile. Each keystroke on the V3 Piano Pro adds a lively and crisp quality, providing an immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is known for providing a buttery and creamy typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. The bouncy nature of these switches provides a spring-like feedback, adding a lively feel to each key press. Additionally, the creamy and silky qualities enhance the smoothness of typing, while the polished finish reduces friction and ensures a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery and creamy feel, the V3 Piano Pro offers a clacky and resonant sound paired with a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. Depending on personal preference and the desired gaming or typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying result. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring an optimal keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing/gaming needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers exceptional gaming performance with a shorter travel distance and vibrant RGB lighting, then the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer switches with a snappy sound signature, a smooth actuation, and a lively tactile experience, then the V3 Piano Pro might be more suited to your typing style. Keep in mind the different bottom out forces as well - the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter at 50 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro at 55 grams. Ultimately, whether you prefer a bassy and thocky sound profile or a clacky and resonant one, as well as whether you enjoy a buttery or bouncy feel, will guide your decision in choosing between these two linear switches. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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