Gateron Mini i vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that each offers unique characteristics suited for different preferences. The Gateron Mini i is praised for its gentle tactility and muted sound profile, making it an excellent choice for office environments where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mini i and the Akko V3 Piano Pro feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon material in both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder. This softer plastic creates a unique typing experience that may be preferred by those looking for a more muted sound while typing.
While the top and bottom housing materials in both switches are made of nylon, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a unique design with its Piano Pro aesthetic. This design choice adds a touch of elegance to the switch, making it stand out visually compared to the Gateron Mini i. However, in terms of typing experience and sound profile, both switches offer a similar feel due to the shared nylon housing material. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience regardless of the aesthetic differences between the two switches.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i and the Akko V3 Piano Pro showcase the benefits of nylon housing materials in creating a distinctive typing experience. The softer plastic used in both switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile that may be appealing to those looking for a quieter typing experience. While the Piano Pro aesthetic of the Akko V3 adds a visual flair to the switch, the performance and sound profile of both switches are comparable due to the shared nylon housing materials in both models. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with a focus on sound profile and comfort.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch with a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams to fully press down, while the V3 Piano Pro needs 55 grams. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Mini i providing a lighter touch ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly firmer push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Mini i is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, making it a great option for those looking for a more effortless typing experience, while the V3 Piano Pro falls in the medium-light range, providing a balance between lightness and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch with a 3.5 mm travel distance. This slight difference may not be noticeable to some users, but for those looking for faster response times, the Mini i may be the preferred choice. However, for users who prefer a deeper keystroke feel, the V3 Piano Pro may be the better option. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 Mini i tactile switch offers a fairly neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between feedback and muted tones, suitable for office settings where a quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a snappy and resonant sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. The clacky nature of the V3 Piano Pro creates a sharper and more percussive sound compared to the Mini i.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron Mini i and Akko V3 Piano Pro offer a bouncy feedback sensation, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed. However, the Mini i is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering a comfortable and gentle typing experience with a subtle resistance. In comparison, the V3 Piano Pro is known for its creamy and silky feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i excels in providing a quiet and professional typing experience, with a moderate sound profile and comfortable, easy-to-press sensation. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy and resonant sound signature, along with a creamy and silky feel that enhances the smoothness of typing. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can elevate the typing experience. Whether you prefer a balanced and muted sound like the Mini i provides or a lively and crisp sound like the V3 Piano Pro, you can achieve satisfying results with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mini i tactile switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is important to assess your typing preferences. If you prioritize a light and bouncy typing experience with subtle tactility and minimal sound, the Gateron Mini i switches may be the ideal choice for you, especially for office settings where a quieter typing environment is preferred. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy and lively typing experience with a medium-light actuation force and a creamy smoothness in each keystroke, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a gentle and understated typing feel or a more pronounced and resonant tactile feedback. Consider your typing habits and environment to determine which switch will best suit your needs and enhance your overall typing experience.
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