Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, with the Gateron Smoothie, a linear switch, you'll find that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Lavender Purple V3 switches provide a delightful typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making them appealing to those who enjoy a tactile response while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its all-POM construction, offering a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Smoothie, we see a clear distinction in their top housing composition. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is ideal for those seeking a more resonant and clear sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housing, we find another point of contrast between the two switches. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro boasts a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is achieved because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Smoothie features a POM bottom housing that aligns with its top housing in producing a pleasing and unique deep sound with a muted quality. While both housing materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro contributes to a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Smoothie ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches incorporate different combinations of top and bottom housing materials to create unique typing experiences. Those looking for a sharper and crisper sound may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with its polycarbonate top housing, while individuals seeking a deeper and more muted sound might lean towards the POM housing of the Gateron Smoothie. Regardless of the choice, each switch provides a distinct typing experience based on the composition of their housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch with a 40-gram actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro requires 55 grams of force, whereas the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the V3 Lavender Purple Pro a medium-light switch overall, while the Smoothie's overall weight is undetermined. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Gateron Smoothie more to their liking, as the actuation force is lighter. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches have a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0mm, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth and a more cushioned feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive and abrupt typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is best described as high-pitched with a satisfying tactile bump, offering a more pronounced feedback when pressed compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, which is known for its thocky sound profile. The Smoothie's low-pitched and subdued sound signature provides a deep and rich sound reminiscent of a "thud" or "knock" when pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by variables such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used, so personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the ideal sound profile for your typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized by an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a medium level of tactility with lively feedback and smooth key travel due to the refined finish of the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Smoothie's smooth and fluid keystroke experience is achieved through lubricant application during the manufacturing process or specific materials used in the switch.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it's clear that the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles tailored to different preferences. If you prefer a high-pitched sound with a satisfying tactile bump, and a typing experience characterized by accented tactility and bouncy feedback, the Lavender Purple Pro switch would suit your preferences. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thocky sound with a buttery and silky smooth typing sensation, the Gateron Smoothie switch would be an excellent choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in typing experience. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, satisfying tactile bump, and medium-light bottom out force, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch with no specified bottom out force, the Gateron Smoothie may be more to your liking. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully before making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that may enhance your typing experience in different ways. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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