Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Type A offer unique experiences for users. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro stands out for its tactile feel, higher-pitched sound profile, and satisfying tactile bump, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A is known for its linear feel and deeper sound signature, making it a great option for those seeking a medium-weight switch. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is described as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished', the Type A is characterized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Each switch has its own set of strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Type A switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and construction. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A features a nylon top housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is more likely to be used for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the nylon top housing of the Type A offers a classic feel with its duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Type A switches use nylon, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This commonality in housing material results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, despite any differences in the top housing. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound profile when releasing a key. Overall, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a consistent typing experience with a distinct sound profile.
While the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Type A switches differ in terms of top housing materials, both switches share a common nylon bottom housing. This ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the differences in top housing materials providing unique characteristics to each switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound profile suitable for RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Type A provides a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have medium-light actuation and bottom out forces, with the V3 having a slightly lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 55 grams. The lighter actuation force of the V3 may make it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where quick and light keystrokes are desired. On the other hand, the Type A's slightly heavier actuation force provides a stronger push feel for those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Type A linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Type A being slightly longer. Gamers may lean towards the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Gateron Type A. 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 Type A comes in at $4.70 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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, offering a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch has a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum, providing a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed. Depending on other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps, you can expect different sound results from each switch.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as having an accented tactile feel, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, it offers a bouncy and snappy sensation with a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Type A switch is unknown. The Gateron Type A switch may offer a different tactile feel depending on the travel distances and factory lubing techniques used.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile, a satisfying tactile bump, and a medium level of tactility with a bouncy and snappy sensation, the Gateron Type A linear switch provides a deeper sound profile with a more subdued and dampened sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as the specific typing experience desired by the user. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so you can expect similar results in terms of quality performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a tactile switch with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump for a delightful typing experience, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum and a moderate actuation force requirement, the Gateron Type A might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
