Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Ink Yellow is favored for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. It offers a smooth and clacky feel, making it suitable for those seeking a neutral and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch stands out for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, appealing to keyboard enthusiasts looking for an accented, bouncy, and snappy typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them desirable choices, 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
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, we can see that they each offer unique sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow provides a clacky and higher-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Lavender Purple Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Lavender Purple Pro allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the Nylon bottom housing of the Lavender Purple Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the thinner and higher-pitched sound of the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Yellow.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Lavender Purple Pro creates a more resonant sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience with a deeper sound. In contrast, the INK blend top and bottom housings of the Ink Yellow provide a consistent and clacky sound profile that is characterized by its thin and higher-pitched sound. Both switches offer unique typing experiences due to their housing materials, catering to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the switch's overall performance, it is essential to note how each component contributes to the sound and feel of the typing experience. The bottom housing, whether it be nylon or INK blend, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it be polycarbonate or INK blend, influences the sound when a key is released. While the sound profiles may vary between the two switches, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilize their housing materials to create distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Yellow is heavier at 67 grams while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is lighter at 55 grams. This means that the Gateron switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier force. On the other hand, the Akko switch offers a lighter touch, perfect for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Overall, while the Ink Yellow is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a lighter and more effortless typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Yellow. The Ink Yellow with its shorter travel distance may appeal more to gamers looking for faster response times, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro might be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, with the shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow offering quick actuation, and the longer travel distance of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro providing a more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow for $7.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typing purposes. It also produces a clacky sound that is sharp, crisp, and bright when pressed, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a higher-pitched sound profile, providing a more distinctive auditory experience with a satisfying tactile bump. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The switches provide a gentle feel with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an accented, bouncy, and snappy feel. These switches offer a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming, along with a spring-like feedback sensation and super responsiveness, making typing feel more dynamic and lively.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Yellow provides a smooth and clacky sound with a mild and polished feel, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a higher-pitched sound with an accented, bouncy, and snappy feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience, with the Ink Yellow catering to those looking for a laptop-like typing feel, and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro appealing to enthusiasts seeking a tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, clacky typing experience similar to that of a laptop keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a satisfying tactile bump and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for typing experience, bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Consider these factors carefully to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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