Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it's clear that both have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Red is best known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, providing a medium-heavy actuation that appeals to those who value consistency in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple V3 switches offer a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making them a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a more dynamic typing feel. Each switch is categorized with its own set of descriptors, from 'Polished' and 'Creamy' for the Jupiter Red to 'Accented' and 'Bouncy' for the Lavender Purple Pro. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housing, the Jupiter Red has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
The distinct difference between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro lies in their bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red creates a different typing experience compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing on the Jupiter Red produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Lavender Purple Pro offers a similar sound experience with its nylon bottom housing but with its unique features. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In terms of sound and feel, the Jupiter Red's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provides a well-rounded typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate material in the top housing contributes to a sharp and crisp sound profile, while the softer nylon material in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a similar typing experience with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, showcasing a unique sound profile specific to its design. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, but ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red is heavier at 60 grams compared to the Lavender Purple Pro at 55 grams, making the Lavender Purple Pro the lighter option. The actuation force determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Lavender Purple Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may choose the Jupiter Red for a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, but the Lavender Purple Pro provides a lighter bottom out force compared to the heavier feel of the Jupiter Red.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a similar typing experience with relatively comparable travel distances, but the Jupiter Red has a slightly longer distance, providing a bit more depth and feedback compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Akko switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a bit more traditional feel may opt for the Gateron switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Jupiter Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's hard to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Jupiter Red switch is described with qualities like polished, creamy, silky, and mild, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and a gentle feel. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro, on the other hand, is characterized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, suggesting a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, lively feedback, and a smooth typing experience. While the feel of these two switches may differ slightly, they both offer qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch both have unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Jupiter Red is praised for its smooth and consistent keystrokes with medium actuation force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a delightful tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on whether you prefer a linear or tactile experience, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics that align with your personal preferences. Either way, both switches promise to enhance your typing experience with their distinct qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, typing experience, and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-bottom out force and a smooth, consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red is the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force, a satisfying tactile bump, and a higher-pitched sound profile for a delightful typing experience, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is the switch to go for. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual preferences and what type of typing experience you value the most.
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