Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro stand out as top choices for gamers seeking optimal performance. The G Pro 3.0 Silver from Gateron is equipped with a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, providing lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive edge. Its vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add an exciting element to gaming sessions, all while maintaining a budget-friendly price point. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is tailored specifically for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes and a pleasing bassy sound. With light actuation force and shortened travel distance, every millisecond counts in critical gaming scenarios. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, from the buttery and low-pitched feel of the G Pro 3.0 Silver to the feathery and high-pitched sensation of the V3 Silver Pro. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting in mechanical keyboards. Despite their similar top housing materials, the differences may lie in other components such as the bottom housing.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder tonality when typing on switches. Similarly, the Akko V3 Silver Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches' bottom housings play a significant role in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when typing.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, their distinct nylon bottom housings contribute to differences in their overall sound profiles. The G Pro's softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and rounder typing experience, whereas the Akko V3 offers a similar sound profile with its nylon bottom housing. Understanding how each housing material affects the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard can help users choose the switch that best suits their preference for typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches. The G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the V3 Silver Pro requires 40 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out. This means that both switches will provide a light and smooth typing experience, making them ideal for long typing or gaming sessions where fatigue can be a concern. However, the V3 Silver Pro is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, so it may be preferred by users who prefer an even lighter typing feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver may appeal to those who prefer a slightly more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the V3 Silver Pro being the lighter option overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we can see that the G Pro 3.0 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 3.3 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can have an impact on how the keys feel when typing or gaming. The G Pro 3.0 may provide a slightly more cushioned feel due to its longer travel distance, while the V3 Silver Pro may offer a slightly quicker response time with its shorter distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive feel, the V3 Silver Pro with its shorter travel distance may be the better option, but if you prefer a bit more depth in your keystrokes, the G Pro 3.0 with its longer travel distance could be the preferred choice. Both switches offer similar results in terms of performance, so either option would be suitable depending on individual 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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound, which is sharper and crisper compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, whether you prefer a deeper bass or a sharper tone in your keyboard switches.
In terms of feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation, while the V3 Silver Pro is also described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, polished, and silky, emphasizing a light actuation force and reduced finger fatigue during typing sessions. Both switches prioritize comfort and responsiveness, making them suitable choices for gaming and extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch each have their own unique sound and feel qualities to offer. The G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in providing a bassy and thocky sound profile, coupled with a buttery and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro prioritizes a high-pitched sound and feather-light key presses, enhancing typing comfort. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both switches are designed to enhance the user's gaming and typing experience. If you lean towards a bassy and thocky sound with a smooth and uniform typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the way to go. If you prefer a high-pitched sound with a light and effortless typing experience, the Akko V3 Silver Pro will deliver similar results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider the specific features that align with your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a slightly higher bottom out force and a more bassy, low-pitched sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a lighter actuation force, a faster travel distance, and a high-pitched sound profile, the Akko V3 Silver Pro could be the ideal switch for your gaming or typing needs. Both switches offer unique advantages, so make your decision based on what factors are most important to you in your mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, it's about finding the switch that enhances your overall typing or gaming performance and enjoyment.
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