Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The North Pole V2 is best known for its gummy and subdued typing experience, providing a satisfying and chewy feel with a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches stand out for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. While the North Pole V2 may appeal to those seeking a softer and more subtle typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro switches are ideal for individuals who prefer a more tactile and responsive feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Akko V3 Piano Pro feature high-quality housing materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In comparison, the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded and duller sound profile for those who prefer a softer typing experience. While both materials have their unique qualities, they cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 mirrors the qualities of the top housing, contributing to a sharp and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro complements the top housing by providing a deeper and fuller sound, creating a cohesive typing experience with a consistent sound profile. Despite the differences in materials, both switches aim to enhance the overall feel and sound of typing, catering to different preferences in terms of sound and feedback.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Akko V3 Piano Pro ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While the North Pole V2 excels in providing a clear and resonant typing experience with its polycarbonate housing, the V3 Piano Pro offers a softer and more rounded sound profile with its nylon housing. Both switches offer high-quality materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience, making them suitable options for those looking for a premium mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you prefer a sharper sound or a deeper one, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The North Pole V2 has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This means that the North Pole V2 will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the V3 Piano Pro will offer a lighter touch suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In comparing the two, we see that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance than the V3 Piano Pro. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact how the switch feels when typing or gaming. The longer travel distance of the North Pole V2 may provide a more substantial and deliberate keypress, while the shorter travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro could offer a quicker and more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and how you like your keystrokes to feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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.
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 North Pole V2 linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound profile that is not completely silent but is much more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is clean and sharp. Depending on personal preference, the North Pole V2 will deliver a quieter typing experience while the V3 Piano Pro will offer a more lively and percussive auditory feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the North Pole V2 is best described as a gummy switch that gives a unique typing experience similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, it provides a creamy and bouncy sensation with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a bouncy and silky typing experience with an exceptionally smooth feel and minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the North Pole V2 provides a subdued and gummy sound profile along with a creamy and bouncy typing sensation, the V3 Piano Pro delivers a clacky and resonant sound signature with a bouncy and silky feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, both switches offer a delightful typing experience that will cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, whether you choose the North Pole V2 or the V3 Piano Pro, you can expect a high-quality switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gummy, bouncy, creamy, or polished feel along with a subdued sound profile, then the North Pole V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a snappy, clacky, creamy, polished, or silky feel with a resonant sound profile, then the V3 Piano Pro could be more suited to your tastes. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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