Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offer distinct characteristics to suit different preferences. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch known for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying tactile bump and a higher-pitched sound profile. While the Ink Box Black is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is described as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. If you value smoothness and a unique sound profile, the Ink Box Black may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a tactile bump and higher-pitched sound, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro could be the better choice. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to the different materials used. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black produces a thinner and higher-pitched sound, creating a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. In comparison, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lavender Purple Pro creates a sharper, crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials provide a distinct sound profile, the polycarbonate in the Lavender Purple Pro allows for a more resonant sound and is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency.
The bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches also contribute to their overall sound profile. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black maintains the switch's high-pitched and clacky sound characteristics, enhancing the typing experience. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Lavender Purple Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, affecting the overall typing experience for users.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches differ in material, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom, impacting the sound when pressing down on the switch and when releasing a key. While the INK blend and polycarbonate materials offer unique sound profiles, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both switches, each tailored to their own preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Ink Box Black is the heavier choice with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter weight of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier weight of the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out force. If both switches were to have the same actuation force and bottom out force, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black makes it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the shorter distance of the Ink Box Black providing quick and snappy feedback, while the longer distance of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offering a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a sharp and crisp spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch does not have a specific sound description provided, so it may offer a different auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also vary depending on the keyboard, keycaps, and other factors in your setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, characterized by smoothness and reduced friction during key presses. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a tactile feedback that is not hypertactile but provides a medium amount of tactility along with a spring-like bounce and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Box Black provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a tactile bump and a higher-pitched sound profile for a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style. Keep in mind that both switches can offer top-notch performance depending on your setup and usage.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a higher bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Ink Box Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch with accents of tactility, bounce, and snappiness, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which switch characteristics align best with your typing style and sound preferences.
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