Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is clear that each offers a unique typing experience worth considering. The V3 Piano Pro is praised for its smooth actuation and snappy sound signature, providing a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Quinn switch stands out for its combination of light tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, delivering a precise and clean tactile bump. While the V3 Piano Pro is known for its smoothness and auditory charm, the Quinn switch offers a unique typing experience with its tactile feedback and immersive sound quality. 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
45g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
20mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Quinn share many similarities, as both keyboards use nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience on both keyboards. As a result, users can expect a similar auditory and tactile feedback when using either the V3 Piano Pro or the Gateron Quinn.
However, while both keyboards utilize the same nylon material for their housing, the design and construction of the housings may vary slightly between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Quinn. This could potentially lead to differences in the overall typing feel and sound produced by each switch. The way in which the top and bottom housings are structured and interact with the internal components of the switch can impact the overall typing experience, despite using the same material. Therefore, users may notice subtle differences in the sound and feel when comparing the two keyboards side by side.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Quinn are the same, there may be slight variations in the overall typing experience due to differences in design and construction. Both keyboards offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the nylon material used in their housings, creating a more pleasant typing experience for users. Whether you choose the V3 Piano Pro or the Gateron Quinn, you can expect a high-quality keyboard with excellent sound and tactile feedback, making either option a great choice for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the V3 Piano Pro provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a heavier typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel while typing. Overall, both switches offer different weight options to cater to different preferences, with the V3 Piano Pro being lighter and the Quinn being heavier.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Quinn's 3.4 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience depending on individual preferences. Shorter travel distances are favored by gamers seeking faster response times, while longer travel distances may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
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 Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is best known for its snappy and resonant qualities, providing a crisp and lively sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of deep and immersive sound profile, thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. The Quinn switch provides a rich and characterful typing experience with a precise and clean tactile bump.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a lively rebound. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is characterized by its snappy and polished feel, providing a super responsive and smooth key travel along with a medium level of tactility. Both switches offer a buttery typing sensation, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Piano Pro offers a snappy and resonant sound signature, paired with a bouncy and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn switch provides a deep and immersive sound profile along with a snappy and polished feel, offering a precise tactile bump. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of smoothness and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a snappy sound signature, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. It offers a smooth actuation and a lively, crisp quality to each keystroke, providing a pleasing tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the way to go. With its rich and immersive sound and precise tactile bump, you can expect a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel.
Mentioned in this article
