HMX Gravel vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both stand out as exceptional linear options, yet they cater to distinct preferences and typing experiences. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth and refined feel, providing a medium-light actuation force that ensures a responsive and almost effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches feature a long pole design that contributes to their snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp auditory quality to every keystroke, while still delivering a smooth actuation. This unique combination of sound and feel makes the V3 Piano Pro particularly appealing to those who enjoy a bit of feedback with their typing. While both switches promise smoothness, the Gravel leans towards a more subtle typing experience, whereas the Piano Pro incorporates an engaging auditory component. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Gravel and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, one of the most striking differences lies in the materials used for the top housing of each switch. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer nature, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for users who favor an articulate click or clarity in sound, especially when RGB lighting is involved due to the translucency of polycarbonate. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro opts for a nylon top housing, a material recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound and results in a rounder tonal quality, catering to users who prefer a more cushioned auditory experience. Thus, while the Gravel emphasizes clarity and resonance, the V3 Piano Pro veers towards a softer and fuller acoustic environment.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, leading to a shared quality between the two models. The nylon material, being a classic switch housing choice, promotes a deeper sound profile in both cases. This consistency in bottom housing contributes to a unified bottom-out sound and feel while typing. The HMX Gravel's bottom nylon housing complements its polycarbonate top by bringing warmth to the sound generated, balancing the overall acoustic experience. Likewise, the nylon bottom housing of the Akko V3 Piano Pro naturally aligns with its own nylon top to create a cohesive auditory output. Given that the bottom housing influences the bottom-out feel, users can expect a similar tactile sensation from both models, despite their differences in top material.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials allows for distinct yet harmonically related performance outcomes. While the HMX Gravel’s polycarbonate top provides an additional layer of clarity and brightness, the nylon bottom sustains a common foundation that offers depth and warmth. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro melds its nylon top and bottom to deliver a consistently soft and combined auditory profile. Users seeking vibrant and sharp keystrokes may gravitate toward the Gravel, whereas those who prefer muted, fuller sounds could find the V3 Piano Pro more appealing. Therefore, despite their differences, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing fosters a level of compatibility that allows both switches to deliver satisfying tactile and auditory experiences.
Weight
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch show interesting similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. Both switches have an identical actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users can expect a similar feel when triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gravel switches are lighter at 50 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams. This difference indicates that while both switches will feel quite similar when it comes to the initial keystroke, the V3 Piano Pro will provide a heavier resistance upon bottoming out. For those who favor a lighter switch for long typing sessions, the Gravel's lower bottom out force may be more appealing. Conversely, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience will likely appreciate the added weight of the V3 Piano Pro. Ultimately, the Gravel appeals to users seeking a lightweight option, while the V3 Piano Pro suits those who enjoy a firmer tactile response.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch both have identical travel distances of 3.5 mm, meaning that the experience of pressing down on the keys will feel the same in terms of distance traveled. As both switches share this measurement, users can expect similar tactile responses and actuation depths when using either switch. Thus, the uniform travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of the choice between the Gravel and the V3 Piano Pro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it's clear that they present distinct auditory experiences. The Gravel is characterized by its understated sound, allowing for a comparatively quiet typing environment, although the specifics aren't elaborated upon. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro makes a bold statement with its clacky sound signature, producing sharp and snappy noises with each keystroke. This lively and crisp quality, supplemented by a resonant tone, creates an immersive auditory experience that's rich and engaging, making it a more lively choice for users seeking a pronounced audio feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, the Gravel switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness, offering a refined typing experience. This switch features a medium-light actuation force that leans towards being lighter, allowing for a responsive and effortless typing dynamic. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro benefits from its long pole design, which lends a bouncy and spring-like sensation to the keystrokes, creating a lively typing experience. Additionally, its creamy and polished characteristics provide a smooth and buttery feel, further enhancing the typing experience with minimal friction and a silky touch. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the Gravel's more straightforward design contrasts with the V3 Piano Pro's complex and dynamic tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the HMX Gravel linear switch offers a smooth and refined typing feel with a subtle sound profile, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize a quiet and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch delivers a lively and engaging auditory feedback, complemented by a bouncy and silky feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile and acoustic experience. While they cater to slightly different preferences, both switches offer their unique satisfaction, ensuring that mechanical keyboard enthusiasts can find an option that resonates with their individual typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific needs. If you value a light actuation force combined with an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, the HMX Gravel is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom out force offers a quick response, making it ideal for those who type frequently or enjoy a more effortless keystroke. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch with a distinctive auditory presence, the Akko V3 Piano Pro might be more to your liking. With its 55-gram bottom out force and clacky, resonant sound profile, this switch provides a lively, engaging typing experience, along with a bouncy and creamy feel that can enhance your satisfaction during long typing sessions. Consider your typing style, the sound you enjoy, and the tactile feedback you desire to make the right choice for your keyboard setup.
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