HMX Gravel vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Gravel and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique attributes that cater to different types of users. The HMX Gravel, known for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, provides a medium-light actuation force that creates a responsive and effortless typing experience. This makes it an appealing option for typists looking for comfort and ease during long writing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is specifically engineered for gamers, featuring a light actuation force and a shortened travel distance, which can enhance performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios where speed is crucial. The delightful bassy sound of each keystroke adds a satisfying auditory element that many users appreciate. While the HMX Gravel excels in providing a smooth and refined experience for general typing, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is optimized for rapid responses and gameplay. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 single-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a similar sound profile characterized by higher pitches and a crisper resonance. The key advantage of polycarbonate lies in its stiffness; this material's rigidity enhances the clarity of sound produced when the keys are pressed, making for a sharper auditory experience. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, which makes them particularly well-suited for RGB lighting setups. The shared use of polycarbonate means that users can expect a consistent sound quality when typing on either switch, enhancing the overall gaming or typing experience without any stark differences.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these two switches diverge in their materials. The Gravel employs nylon in its bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile compared to the crisper characteristics of the polycarbonate top. Similarly, the V3 Silver Pro also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, leading to a full-bodied sound that can absorb more noise due to the softer nature of plastic used. While both switches use nylon, the overall interaction of the two different housing materials—with polycarbonate on top and nylon below—creates a balanced auditory experience throughout the keypress cycle, influencing both the bottom-out feel and the release sound.
Overall, while the top housings of the HMX Gravel and Akko V3 Silver Pro are identical in material and thus sound profile, the similarities in their bottom housings reinforce a cohesive yet layered auditory signature. Both utilize nylon to create warmer, more resonant tones that complement the sharper tones from the polycarbonate above. As a result, when users type, they will experience a harmonious blend of sound qualities—crispness from the top and fullness from the bottom—creating an effective synergy that enhances the overall typing or gaming experience on either switch.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, but the specifics reveal some differences. The Gravel switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier than the V3 Silver Pro, which features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Akko V3 Silver Pro may provide a more effortless typing experience, especially for users who prefer longer sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the HMX Gravel offers a stronger push feel due to its higher weight, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches cater to light touch preferences, the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option, making it particularly suitable for extended usage, whereas the Gravel provides a bit more tactile resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, the Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the V3 Silver Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference indicates that the Gravel switch offers a deeper keystroke, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who value quicker response times and a more abrupt actuation. Consequently, gamers often gravitate towards the V3 Silver Pro for its faster performance, while typists may favor the HMX Gravel for its satisfying depth. Overall, the HMX Gravel provides a longer travel distance, making it ideal for users seeking a more tactile feel, whereas the Akko V3 Silver Pro is suited for those who prioritize rapid key presses.
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 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 HMX Gravel switch is notable for its refined auditory profile, which is generally smooth and unobtrusive, allowing for an understated typing experience that avoids distractions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is engineered to deliver a high-pitched and sharp sound. This auditory sharpness is enhanced by a bassy undertone, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing or gaming. While both switches provide satisfying auditory feedback, the Gravel’s quieter sound could be preferable in quieter settings, whereas the V3 Silver Pro might be more engaging for those who appreciate a bit more character in their keystrokes.
The feel of the Gravel switch is defined by an exceptional smoothness and a medium-light actuation force that delivers a responsive typing experience with little resistance. This makes it conducive to both typing and gaming, as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, coupled with a creamy and polished smoothness. This combination enhances user comfort during extended sessions, significantly reducing finger fatigue. The V3 Silver Pro also provides a feathery touch that can make each keystroke feel light as air, while maintaining its responsive nature, resulting in a highly satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. While the Gravel excels in providing a smooth and refined typing feel, ideal for quieter environments, the V3 Silver Pro introduces a dynamic auditory profile and an exceptionally light feel, making it a gamer-friendly option. Ultimately, both switches provide a gratifying typing experience, and your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound character or typing smoothness.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing feel, the Gravel switch is ideal for you. Its slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams still leans towards lightness, making it a great choice for general typing and long sessions without causing significant finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for speed and responsiveness, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is designed to give you the competitive edge with its 45-gram actuation force, which facilitates quicker keystrokes and reaction times. Plus, the pleasing bassy sound adds an enjoyable auditory experience during gameplay. While the Gravel offers a silky and creamy typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions, the V3 Silver Pro enhances the gaming experience with its high-pitched, sharp sound and easy-to-press feel. Therefore, assess your main usage: for typing and a smooth experience, choose the Gravel; for gaming and speed, go with the V3 Silver Pro.
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