Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique features to enhance your typing or gaming experience. The Ink Yellow is known for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. With a smooth and clacky feel, this switch is ideal for those seeking a polished and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is specifically designed for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound. With light actuation force and shortened travel distance, these switches are perfect for scenarios where speed is crucial. 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
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Gold-plated
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, one notable difference is in their top housing. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend that creates a thin and higher-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro uses polycarbonate, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials provide a satisfying sound experience, the INK blend tends to be less sharp compared to the polycarbonate, giving users different tactile feedbacks.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the contrasts continue between the two switches. The Ink Yellow utilizes the same proprietary INK blend, which leads to a thin and higher-pitched sound profile. Meanwhile, the V3 Silver Pro employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nylon material absorbs more sound compared to the harder INK blend, creating a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users who prefer a less sharp typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro differ in their top and bottom components, the overall sound profiles of both switches remain satisfying in their own ways. The INK blend used in the Ink Yellow provides a clacky sound that is not overly sharp, while the polycarbonate and nylon materials used in the V3 Silver Pro offer sharper and deeper sound profiles, respectively. Whether you prefer a thinner and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, 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. The difference in weight between the two switches can greatly impact the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the V3 Silver Pro more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Ink Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quick response times. However, the Ink Yellow offers a slightly deeper press compared to the V3 Silver Pro. For those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, the Gateron Ink Yellow might be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter and more immediate key press, the Akko V3 Silver Pro would be the choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 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
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile that offers a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes. It also gives off a clacky sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright typing experience. In terms of feel, the Ink Yellow switch offers a mild typing experience that falls in the safe, middle-ground zone, with a polished finish that ensures smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is specifically designed for gamers, producing a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. The V3 Silver Pro switch offers an easy-to-press typing experience with a light actuation force, creating a creamy and feathery sensation that reduces finger fatigue during long gaming sessions.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Yellow and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches have their unique sound and feel characteristics, they both share a smooth typing experience with reduced friction and a polished finish. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and intended use, whether it be for general typing purposes or intense gaming.Both switches excel in providing a responsive and enjoyable typing experience, making them suitable options for newcomers looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smoother, clackier typing experience, the Ink Yellow may be the better choice for you, especially if you enjoy a neutral or clacky sound profile and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom out force and need switches specifically designed for gaming, the V3 Silver Pro switches may be more suitable, offering a high-pitched sound profile and an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, or silky feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences, and intended use case.
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