Gateron Mars vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing or gaming style, the Gateron Mars and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches offer distinct advantages tailored to different users. The Gateron Mars switches are celebrated for their innovative design, incorporating a POK stem along with a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, which results in a smooth and satisfying keystroke experience. These switches are ideal for those seeking a balance between comfort and performance in casual typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are engineered specifically for gamers, boasting a unique combination of light actuation force and shortened travel distance that enhances responsiveness during high-stakes play. They also produce a pleasing bassy sound with each press, making them an appealing choice for those who value auditory feedback and quick response times. While both switches offer linear action and a smoother feel, their optimal uses can cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mars and the Akko V3 Silver Pro keyboards feature different top housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Mars utilizes a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound energy. This property results in a more muted typing experience that emphasizes a warm, rounded acoustic profile. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which is notably stiffer and contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Such distinct differences highlight how the materials affect the auditory characteristics of each keyboard, providing users with unique auditory feedback based on their preference for sound clarity versus warmth.
When examining the bottom housing, the situation shifts slightly, as both keyboards employ distinctly different materials that affect their overall sound experience. The Mars features a POM bottom housing, which adds to the keyboard's deeper sound profile, further enhancing the muted quality already established by its nylon top. This combination results in a unique sound experience that is full and pleasant when typing. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which parallels the sound characteristics of the Gateron Mars's top housing. This means that the V3 Silver Pro also produces a deeper, rounder sound, albeit in a slightly different context due to the contrasting top housing. When the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, both keyboards ultimately retain a degree of similarity in their acoustic bottom-out performance, despite their different top materials.
In summary, while the Gateron Mars and Akko V3 Silver Pro differ markedly in their top housing materials—nylon for Mars versus polycarbonate for V3 Silver Pro—both keyboards share similarities in their bottom housing characteristics that lead to comparable auditory effects during typing. The nylon in the bottom of the V3 Silver Pro aligns with the deeper sound profile provided by the POM of the Mars, emphasizing the richness of sound during key presses. Ultimately, the combination of distinct top and bottom materials creates varied typing experiences that cater to different preferences, yet both models can deliver a pleasing and fulfilling auditory output, depending on which qualities users prioritize in their keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force. The Mars switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro is lighter at 40 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch may find the Akko switch more comfortable for extended use, as it requires less force to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Silver Pro has a defined bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating the force required to fully press the key down, while the bottom out force for the Mars switch is unavailable. Consequently, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro's bottom out force matches its actuation force, creating a consistent feel, the Gateron Mars lacks this specific information, making it more difficult to assess the overall typing experience. Thus, the Gateron Mars is the heavier switch in terms of actuation, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, the Gateron Mars measures at 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference suggests that users who favor a more responsive feel may be inclined to choose the Akko V3 Silver Pro due to its shorter actuation distance, which can be advantageous for gaming and rapid keystrokes. Conversely, the Gateron Mars, with its longer travel distance, may appeal more to users seeking a deeper, more substantial keypress experience that avoids the abruptness associated with shorter travel distances. Overall, those who appreciate a nimble response may prefer the V3 Silver Pro, whereas a more traditional typing experience may lead to favoring the Mars switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mars switch remains an enigma, as its acoustic profile is not explicitly described. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches produce a high-pitched sound, characterized as sharp and crisp, making them a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a brighter audio feedback while typing. This high-frequency sound may resonate more for users seeking clarity over a deeper, bass-rich auditory experience. However, it’s essential to remember that the sound produced by these switches can be influenced by various factors, including the type of keyboard board and the keycaps used, which means that the Mars switches may also produce an unexpectedly pleasant sound in the right setup.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mars switch does not have a defined tactile character described, but the Akko V3 Silver Pro offers a range of enjoyable sensations. These switches are designed to be easy to press, providing gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This feature, combined with a light actuation force, enhances the comfort of typing and reduces fatigue during extended use. Moreover, Akko V3 Silver Pro switches also exhibit attributes like a creamy and polished feel, suggested to offer a smooth, buttery typing experience, alongside a feathery sensation that promotes effortless keystrokes. The silky texture further complements the overall experience, ensuring a seamless transition between key presses.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Mars switch's specific sound and feel qualities remain unclear, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches clearly stand out with their distinct sound and tactile features designed for both comfort and performance. Gamers and typists alike may find that, if you choose the right setup, the Mars switch could potentially offer a satisfying experience similar to that of the Akko V3 Silver Pro. However, the latter provides a well-rounded package with its well-engineered attributes, making it a top contender for anyone prioritizing sound clarity and an exceptionally smooth feel in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Mars linear switches and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and use cases. If you're looking for a switch that offers a unique blend of smoothness and a lighter feel, the Gateron Mars might be your ideal option. Known for its innovative design and feathery lightness, it could be particularly appealing if you want a quieter typing experience that still feels responsive, especially for extended sessions of typing or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize fast-paced gaming performance, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is engineered precisely for that purpose. With its light actuation force and shorter travel distance, it ensures every keystroke registers with minimal effort, making it perfect for competitive situations where reaction time is critical. The high-pitched sound profile also adds an element of sharpness that some users may prefer over the deeper tones of the Mars switches. Therefore, assess your typing style and needs to choose the switch that aligns with your goals, whether it's general use and comfort or high-stakes gaming performance.
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