Gateron Mini i vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct experiences catered to different needs. The Gateron Mini i switches are perfect for office settings, providing a gentle tactility with a fairly muted sound profile, ideal for maintaining a quiet and professional environment. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are designed specifically for gamers, offering smooth keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, along with light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and precise movements in gaming scenarios. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In terms of sound, both switches will provide a similar experience due to the shared nylon bottom housing material. However, the top housing of the Mini i is made of nylon, while the V3 Silver Pro utilizes polycarbonate. This means that the sound profile when releasing a key will differ between the two switches. The Mini i's nylon top housing will produce a deeper sound, while the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing will create a sharper and crisper sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the switches also differ due to their top housing materials. The Mini i's nylon top housing does not feature RGB lighting, as nylon is not translucent. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing is clear and allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a more visually appealing option for those who enjoy customizing their keyboards with colorful lighting effects. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound profile when typing on the V3 Silver Pro compared to the Mini i.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Akko V3 Silver Pro will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the difference in top housing materials – nylon for the Mini i and polycarbonate for the V3 Silver Pro – will impact the sound when typing and releasing keys. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting, catering to those who prioritize visual customization. Ultimately, users will need to consider their priorities in sound, feel, and appearance when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 40 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron Mini i requires 50 grams of force, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro only requires 45 grams. This means that the Akko V3 Silver Pro is slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of these switches make them ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the desired force and feel while typing.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Mini i for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, while there is a slight difference in travel distance between the two switches, both offer a shorter travel distance that may cater to individuals looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Mini i providing a more versatile sound option while the V3 Silver Pro offering a more distinctive and potentially more engaging sound experience, especially for gaming purposes.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mini i switch is known for being bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These characteristics result in a comfortable and responsive typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and strain on the fingers. The choice between the two switches would again depend on personal preference, with the Mini i providing a more lively and bouncy typing experience, while the V3 Silver Pro offers a smoother and more polished feel.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i is more versatile in sound profile and provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience, suitable for office-centric use. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro offers a high-pitched sound and a smooth, polished feel ideal for gaming scenarios where quick key presses are crucial. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences and the intended use case, ensuring that each user can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you value a subtle and balanced typing experience with gentle tactility and a quiet sound profile, the Mini i may be the ideal choice for long hours of comfortable typing in a professional setting. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless keystroke with a pleasing bassy sound, especially for gaming where quick actuation is crucial, the V3 Silver Pro could be the perfect fit. Consider factors like actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique benefits that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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