Gateron Mountain Top vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Mountain Top and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both linear switches. The Gateron Mountain Top is tailored for office environments, offering a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience with a light actuation. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro features a snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, bringing a lively and crisp quality to keystrokes. While the Mountain Top focuses on discretion and subdued sound, the Piano Pro emphasizes auditory charm and tactile smoothness. 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 Mountain Top and the Akko V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This gives both switches a unique auditory experience that typists may appreciate for its depth and resonance.
While both switches have nylon top housing, the Gateron Mountain Top and the Akko V3 Piano Pro differ in their bottom housing material. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. This differentiation in housing materials may result in subtle differences in typing experience between the two switches, adding to the overall tactile feel and sound feedback for users.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Akko V3 Piano Pro will likely result in comparable typing experiences in terms of sound profile and feel. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to their nylon housing, providing typists with a satisfying auditory experience while typing. The differences in bottom housing materials may lead to slight variations in bottom-out sound and feel, but overall, users can expect a similar level of quality and performance from these premium switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we can see that the Mountain Top switch is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Mountain Top switch offers a lighter touch, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. The V3 Piano Pro switch, with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces, may appeal to those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing feel. Regardless, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the V3 Piano Pro providing a slightly more tactile feedback due to its higher force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant for most users, as they will likely provide similar results in terms of keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the subtle difference in travel distance.
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 Mountain Top 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 Mountain Top linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of environments and users. It provides a moderately quiet typing experience that is not disruptive in office settings. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch boasts a clacky and resonant sound signature, adding a lively and percussive quality to each keystroke. Depending on your preference for sound, the Mountain Top switch may provide a more understated typing experience, while the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a more vibrant and engaging auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience. The Mountain Top switch is described as easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance and effortless typing, ideal for reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro switch is described as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness in key travel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and responsive typing feel, with the V3 Piano Pro emphasizing a more luxurious and polished sensation.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Mountain Top and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches differ in their sound and feel qualities, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. The Mountain Top switch is more neutral and easy-going, catering to a professional environment with its quiet and easy actuation characteristics. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a more lively and engaging typing experience, with a snappy sound signature and silky smooth feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches are sure to deliver quality performance and comfort to users seeking a premium mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are working in an office setting where quietness is essential, the Gateron Mountain Top switch with its light actuation force and discreet typing experience would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappier sound profile and a smoother typing experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch with its medium-light actuation force and lively feel may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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