Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with unique characteristics. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is favored for its low-pitched and polished feel, providing a satisfying clack with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, offering a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and precise input. While the V2 excels in delivering a classic linear switch experience, the V3 Silver Pro stands out for its gaming-focused features. 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
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is clear that they offer different sound profiles due to their unique materials. The Ink Black V2's INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, which is often described as clacky. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and translucency. While both materials offer a pleasing sound, users may prefer the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate of the V3 Silver Pro for a more distinct typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend offers a similar sound profile to its top housing, characterized by a pointed and high-pitched tone. Meanwhile, the Akko V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles adds diversity to the typing experience offered by each switch, with the smooth and rounded tones of the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Silver Pro offering a distinctive typing feel compared to the sharper tones of the INK blend in the Ink Black V2.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Akko V3 Silver Pro contribute to unique typing experiences for users. While the INK blend in the Ink Black V2 provides a thinner and higher-pitched sound, the polycarbonate in the V3 Silver Pro delivers a sharper and crisper tone. Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 maintains a consistent sound profile with its top housing, while the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Silver Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how these materials impact the sound and feel of each switch can help users choose the one that best suits their preferences for typing.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Black V2 has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more lightweight option. This means that the V3 Silver Pro is lighter to type on, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions, while the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Black V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the V3 Silver Pro's shorter 3.3 mm distance. The Ink Black V2 offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or typists seeking a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, providing a rich and deep sound profile during key presses. Additionally, it has a unique chirpy quality that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, catering to those who prefer a crisper sound profile. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the type of keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as mild and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. It falls in the middle-ground zone in terms of typing feel, making it approachable to most users. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, providing gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force results in a low-impact and responsive typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, its creamy, feathery, polished, and silky attributes contribute to a smooth and buttery typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch excels in providing a low-pitched, bassy sound profile and a mild, polished typing feel, suitable for users seeking a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound and an easy-to-press, creamy typing feel, catering specifically to gamers and individuals looking for a responsive and low-impact typing experience. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preferences in sound and feel, as both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch specifically engineered for gaming with a pleasing bassy sound, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prefer a low-pitched and mild feel with the Ink Black V2, or a high-pitched and easy-to-press sensation with the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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