Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Smoothie Silver, a linear switch, one can see a clear distinction in their key features. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is known for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, providing a delightful typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver stands out for its lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is lauded for its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, the Smoothie Silver excels in its silent operation. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Silver, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles due to their different materials. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer a clear housing, which is beneficial for RGB lighting effects. When it comes to the bottom housing, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Smoothie Silver's POM material has similar qualities in creating a deeper and muted sound.
Despite the differences in their specific materials, both the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Smoothie Silver aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their housing choices. The use of polycarbonate in the V3 Lavender Purple Pro leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the POM material in the Smoothie Silver offers a more unique and deep sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound profile, similar to the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver. Overall, both switches prioritize sound quality and aim to deliver a pleasing sound experience for users.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials affect the overall typing experience, it is important to note that each material brings different qualities to the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Smoothie Silver may have different housing materials, they both aim to create a well-rounded typing experience by carefully selecting materials that enhance the sound profile of the switches.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is slightly heavier at 55 grams, while the Smoothie Silver does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a more substantial typing experience compared to the Smoothie Silver, which may be preferred by those who like a bit more resistance when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding typing feel and the desired weight of the switches.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Smoothie Silver's 3.4 mm. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly deeper keystroke feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals seeking quicker response times due to the shorter distance the key travels. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro providing a longer travel distance and the Smoothie Silver offering a shorter travel distance for those looking for faster key actuation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and the desired key feel for each user.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, which can provide a satisfying auditory feedback during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is praised for its thocky sound, offering a unique and pleasant typing sound experience. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as having a combination of qualities that make it an appealing option for keyboard enthusiasts. It is noted for being accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a balanced tactile experience that is neither too soft nor too harsh. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is characterized by its smoothness and feather-light touch due to the all-POM material construction. This results in a swift and effortless typing experience that can enhance typing speed and accuracy.
Overall, both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Lavender Purple Pro switch excels in providing a tactile bump and higher-pitched sound, the Smoothie Silver switch stands out for its smoothness and lightning-fast actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience desired by the user. Both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, and users can expect satisfactory results with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force, a higher-pitched sound profile, and a satisfying tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a feather-light touch, short travel distance for fast actuation, and a thocky sound, then the Smoothie Silver might be more suited to your preference. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and the specific characteristics that you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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