Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Smoothie, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Akko V3 Piano Pro is praised for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a lightweight touch, all at an affordable price point. While the Akko V3 Piano Pro is known for its bouncy and clacky feel, the Gateron Smoothie is described as buttery and low-pitched. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Smoothie, they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, while the Smoothie uses a POM top housing. Both materials are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being softer and absorbing more sound compared to POM, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Smoothie's POM top housing is described as creating a more muted sound profile compared to the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron Smoothie incorporates a POM bottom housing. Similar to their top housing counterparts, both materials are praised for their ability to create a deep and pleasing sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Piano Pro is softer and absorbs more sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie, leading to a rounder and duller sound when bottoming out on the keys. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Smoothie may differ in terms of nylon and POM compositions, they both offer a similar goal of creating a deep and full sound profile for a satisfying typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of each switch contribute to the overall sound and feel when typing, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the nylon or POM material used, both switches aim to provide users with a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Piano Pro is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, requiring 45 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Piano Pro is 55 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The V3 Piano Pro offers a medium-light feel, whereas the Smoothie's force remains ambiguous. In terms of weight considerations, the V3 Piano Pro may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a slightly heavier keystroke, providing a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Smoothie may cater to those who prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, while the actuation force of the V3 Piano Pro is heavier than the Smoothie, the results achieved with either switch may be similar depending on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Gateron Smoothie linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While the difference between the two may seem minimal, it can still have an impact on the overall feel and performance of the keyboard. The V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Smoothie's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound signature, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. While the V3 Piano Pro delivers a lively and crisp sound, the Smoothie offers a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the sound profile desired for your typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and refined typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie switch is characterized by a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, with the V3 Piano Pro focusing on a lively and bouncy feel while the Smoothie emphasizes a fluid and effortless keystroke. Again, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the tactile feedback desired during typing.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro and Gateron Smoothie linear switches bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Piano Pro offers a lively and crisp sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the Gateron Smoothie provides a thocky and subdued sound with a buttery and silky typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their distinct characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Akko V3 Piano Pro or the Gateron Smoothie, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with similar results in terms of smoothness and comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should opt for the V3 Piano Pro if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a snappy sound signature with smooth actuation. The Piano Pro switches provide a vibrant tactile experience with a lively, crisp quality to each keystroke. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a thocky sound profile, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, then the Gateron Smoothie would be the ideal choice. The Smoothie switch offers a satisfying sound experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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