Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver boasts lightning-fast actuation with its short travel distance and thocky sound. While the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as ['Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', 'Silky'], the Smoothie Silver does not fall into any specific categories. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both bring unique qualities to the switches. The Nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver offers a more pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and muted. The difference in sound profiles between the two top housings indicates that they will provide distinct typing experiences for users.
In terms of bottom housing, both the V3 Piano Pro's Nylon housing and the Smoothie Silver's POM housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon and POM plastics allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the bottom housings of both switches may have similar effects on sound profiles, the overall typing experience may differ due to other factors such as key travel and actuation force.
When considering how the top and bottom housings work together to shape the typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will be distributed accordingly. The bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. This means that even if the housing materials are similar, the typing experience may still vary depending on whether the top or bottom housing has more prominence in the overall design of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the V3 Piano Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the V3 Piano Pro slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. The V3 Piano Pro's medium-light actuation force and bottom out force make it a good balance between typing comfort and feedback. The Smoothie Silver's actuation force being the same as the V3 Piano Pro but with an unknown bottom out force makes it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of overall weight and feel. Lighter switches like the Akko V3 Piano Pro are preferred by some for prolonged typing sessions, while heavier switches like the Gateron Smoothie Silver may be favored for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While the difference in distance may seem insignificant, it can have an impact on the overall feel of the switch. The V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly deeper press, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy keystroke sound with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is recognized for its thocky sound, offering a clean, sharp sound with unparalleled smoothness. Both switches have their own unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, giving users a variety of options to choose from depending on their preference.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Piano Pro is praised for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback, smooth and buttery sensation, refined finish, and exceptionally smooth key travel. This combination of characteristics ensures a lively and effortless typing experience with reduced friction. While the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is not provided in the information, one can expect a light and smooth actuation due to the short travel distance mentioned in the description, potentially offering a quick and responsive typing experience.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, both switches offer unique sound profiles and potential tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a snappy and lively sound with a smooth actuation like the V3 Piano Pro, or a thocky and smooth sound with lightning-fast actuation like the Smoothie Silver, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch based on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a snappy, crisp sound signature coupled with smooth actuation, the V3 Piano Pro may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force that is unavailable, lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound profile, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, then the Smoothie Silver switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the tactile experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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