Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White with the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro mechanical keyboard switches unveils distinct differences that cater to varying preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch ideal for those who prefer a light and effortless typing experience, with an actuation force of only 38g and a medium-high pitch providing satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a tactile typing experience, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump for a delightful typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 White is lauded for its budget-friendly option with bright RGB lighting, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro appeals to enthusiasts seeking a tactile and bouncy typing feel. 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate material results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. These top housings provide a visually appealing element to the switches while also enhancing the overall sound experience for the user.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon bottom housings, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This material choice affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, providing a different tactile experience compared to the top housing material.
While both switches share similar qualities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the placement of these materials within the switches can affect the overall sound and feel experienced by the user. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This demonstrates how the choice of housing materials can play a significant role in the overall typing experience of mechanical keyboard users.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. The G Pro 3.0 White switch would be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a bit more force required for each keystroke. Regardless, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 White has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 White has a slightly longer travel distance than the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it could be noticeable depending on personal preference. If you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance for a more deliberate key press, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White 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 White switch provides a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is unknown. Depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound produced by the Lavender Purple Pro switch may vary. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a variety of descriptors such as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless typing experience with light actuation force. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a lively and tactile typing experience with prominent tactility.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 White switch boasts a clacky sound profile and a variety of smooth and easy-to-press feel descriptors, the Lavender Purple Pro switch provides an unknown sound profile and a tactile experience characterized by accented tactility and bounciness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, each switch caters to different typing preferences. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, and choosing between them will ultimately depend on individual typing preferences and the overall typing feel desired.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and tactile feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, along with a clacky and subtle sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, along with an accented and polished tactile feel, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro could be the better option. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you find most comfortable and satisfying. Choose wisely based on your typing style and preferences.
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