Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique qualities catering to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink is loved for its smooth and light typing feel, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack when in use. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is specifically designed for gamers, featuring effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, light actuation force, and shortened travel distance. While the Ink Box Pink is described as 'clacky' and 'high-pitched', the V3 Silver Pro is characterized as 'easy-to-press' and 'creamy'. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the INK blend provides a slightly less sharp sound compared to the polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Ink Box Pink maintains its use of the proprietary INK blend, offering a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile as found in the top housing. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. The differences in sound profiles between the two switches’ bottom housings can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of each keystroke. While both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Akko V3 Silver Pro have unique qualities attributed to their respective housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. Whether it be the sharp and clacky sound profile of the INK blend or the deeper and fuller sound profile of the nylon, each housing material brings its own set of characteristics that can appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Pink has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the V3 Silver Pro. The Ink Box Pink requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro only needs 40 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, indicating a lighter touch. This means that the V3 Silver Pro would provide a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the heavier forces of the Ink Box Pink may suit those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being favored for extended use and heavier switches providing a more robust feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Box Pink. Shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more satisfying key press depth. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance. Both switches will provide a distinct feel due to their difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Pink 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 Pink for $7.65.
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 Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its clacky and higher-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher frequency. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is also described as having a high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp tone that caters to those who prefer a brighter sound profile. While both switches share a high-pitched characteristic, the subtle differences in their sound output can be further influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is characterized as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance during key presses. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and a light actuation force that enhances typing speed and comfort. Additionally, the creamy and feathery feel of the V3 Silver Pro contributes to reduced finger fatigue during longer typing sessions, making it an ideal choice for gamers and professionals alike. Both switches offer a polished and smooth typing experience, but the unique characteristics of each can cater to different preferences for typing feel.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel, it is evident that the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Ink Box Pink provides a clacky sound with a lighter typing feel and a smooth texture, the V3 Silver Pro delivers a high-pitched sound accompanied by an easy-to-press and creamy typing experience suitable for gaming scenarios. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and the intended use of the keyboard. Regardless of the choice made, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch versus the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, a higher-pitched clack sound, and a smoother, polished typing feel, the Ink Box Pink may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a bassy keystroke sound, and an easy-to-press, feathery typing feel that is ideal for gaming or quick typing scenarios, the Akko V3 Silver Pro could be the better option. Consider your typing style, preferences for sound and feel, and the tasks you will be using the keyboard for when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences.
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