Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Glory Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro each have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Gateron Glory Yellow switches are known for their heavier feel, providing a smooth keystroke with a satisfying travel distance that many typists enjoy for an overall pleasant typing experience. This switch tends to appeal to those who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes, making it a great option for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are specifically designed with gamers in mind, featuring a light actuation force and shortened travel distance that allows for rapid keystrokes and enhanced responsiveness, which can be critical in high-stakes gaming scenarios. The V3 Silver Pro also produces a unique bassy sound upon activation, adding an auditory layer to the tactile experience. While both switches are linear and offer distinct advantages depending on the user’s requirements—whether for typing comfort or gaming performance—it's essential to consider the nuances of each switch. 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly affect the auditory experience during typing. The Glory Yellow features a nylon top housing, renowned for its softer composition that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality results in a mellower auditory experience, as the nylon absorbs more sound, thereby producing a rounder and more subdued tone. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro employs a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its rigidity that yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This clear and resonant quality of polycarbonate enhances the clarity of each keystroke, making it especially appealing for users who prefer pronounced auditory feedback during their typing.
Interestingly, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material. This similarity means that regardless of the differences in top housing, typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when the keys bottom out. The nylon bottom provides a consistent foundation for both switches, as its softer nature absorbs sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience upon keypress completion. Therefore, while users may experience a significant contrast in the sound and feel of the keystrokes from the top housing, the bottom-out experience will share fundamental qualities due to the use of nylon in both switches' bottom housings.
Ultimately, the combined effect of the differing top housings and the matching bottom housings leads to a unique typing dynamic for each switch. Users who favor deeper, muted sounds may be drawn to the Glory Yellow’s nylon top, while those who appreciate a clearer and sharper auditory response may prefer the V3 Silver Pro’s polycarbonate top. However, both switches provide a rich sound experience upon bottoming out, thanks to their shared nylon bottom housing. This balance allows typists to enjoy a myriad of sound profiles based on their preferences, whether they seek the softness of nylon or the clarity of polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it heavier and requiring more force to trigger a keystroke, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to press, which can enhance typing comfort during long sessions. However, while the V3 Silver Pro's bottom out force is measured at 45 grams, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is not available, making direct comparisons challenging. This difference highlights that users will experience a firmer feedback with the Glory Yellow, whereas the V3 Silver Pro offers a lighter overall feel when typing. Overall, those who favor a lighter touch might lean towards the V3 Silver Pro, while those appreciating a stronger push could prefer the Glory Yellow.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference suggests that the Glory Yellow offers a more substantial keypress, which might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and depth when typing. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro, with its reduced travel distance, caters to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances are often favored for their rapid actuation. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that provides a deeper feel and a more hearty experience, the Gateron Glory Yellow would be the more suitable choice. Conversely, if you favor responsiveness and speed, the Akko V3 Silver Pro's shorter travel distance makes it the more optimal option. In summary, the Gateron Glory Yellow is the longer travel option at 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro stands at 3.3 mm, indicating a preference for either a deeper key press or a faster response time based on individual needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch is less defined in its acoustic profile, but generally provides a good balance for users who prefer a cleaner noise without excessive pitches or sharpness. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch features a high-pitched sound that produces a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when pressed. For those who find the bass-heavy tones of other switches undesirable, the V3 Silver Pro delivers a more defined and bright sound, potentially making it a better option for those who appreciate a more articulate auditory experience. However, keep in mind that the final sound experience can also vary based on the keyboard setup, including the choice of board and keycaps.
When considering feel, the Glory Yellow excels with its smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, offering an enjoyable typing experience likely due to its heavier actuation force, which many typists may appreciate for its feedback. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is designed for effortless key presses with an easy-to-press feel that requires minimal force, which is especially advantageous during long gaming sessions. It is characterized as creamy, polished, and silky, resulting in a buttery smooth typing experience. The V3 Silver Pro emphasizes both a low-impact and a light actuation, making it exceptionally comfortable for extended use.
Overall, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro serve different purposes tailored to distinct user preferences. The Glory Yellow is suitable for those who enjoy a satisfying, heavier keystroke with a smooth travel, perfect for typing enthusiasts. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro shines in scenarios demanding quick responses, combining its lightness with a refined auditory quality. Depending on your needs—whether for casual typing or competitive gaming—both switches offer unique benefits that can significantly enhance your overall experience, leading to satisfying results in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a switch that delivers a smooth keystroke with a longer travel distance for an enjoyable typing experience, particularly suited for everyday tasks and longer typing sessions, the Gateron Glory Yellow would be the ideal option for you. Its blend of a comfortable feel and aesthetic sound profile may enhance your overall satisfaction, especially if you appreciate a more rewarding tactile sensation during use. On the other hand, if your primary focus is gaming and fast-paced responses, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches stand out with their light actuation force and short travel distance, making every millisecond count in competitive settings. The high-pitched sound and easy-to-press characteristics provide a responsive and enjoyable experience for both gaming and typing, while also minimizing finger fatigue. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize an enjoyable typing experience for extended use or a nimble, rapid-response setup for gaming success.
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