Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro is celebrated for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type A, a part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," boasts a deeper sound spectrum and is factory lubed for a smoother feel. While the V3 Piano Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', the Type A is labeled as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. If you prefer a bouncy and clacky typing feel, the V3 Piano Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more subdued and neutral typing experience, the Gateron Type A could be the more fitting option. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Type A utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar typing experience for both switches. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deep and full sound profile when typing, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound that can be desirable for typists looking for a quieter typing experience.
While both switches share the same housing material, the differences in design between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Type A may result in slight variations in typing feel and sound. For switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. These nuances in design can affect the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Akko V3 Piano Pro or the Gateron Type A, the nylon housing material will provide a consistent sound profile and typing experience for both switches. Typists can expect a deeper and fuller sound while typing on switches that use nylon, creating a pleasant tactile feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience. The similarities in housing material highlight the importance of design differences in switches, showcasing how slight variations can impact typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch to the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar bottom out force of 55 grams. However, the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. This means that the V3 Piano Pro may provide a smoother and easier typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Type A switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation force - lighter for a smoother typing experience or heavier for a more tactile feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Type A linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the V3 Piano Pro due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a deeper feel when typing may lean towards the Gateron Type A with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on which one to choose.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 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 Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is best known for its clacky and resonant qualities, providing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher pitch and clean sharpness. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, suitable for a variety of purposes with a dampened and subtle sound signature. While the V3 Piano Pro leans towards a lively and crisp auditory experience, the Type A presents a deeper and more moderate sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch boasts a variety of descriptors such as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, indicating a spring-like feedback, smooth buttery typing experience, refined finish, and exceptionally smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Type A linear switch's feel information is unknown. Therefore, based on the available information, it is clear that the V3 Piano Pro offers a range of tactile experiences, while the Type A's feel characteristics remain undisclosed.
Taking into consideration all the information provided, it is evident that the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer distinct sound and potentially feel qualities. While the V3 Piano Pro excels in delivering a lively and crisp sound with a smooth tactile feel, the Type A provides a more moderate and deep sound profile, with its feel characteristics still unknown. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, it is important to consider personal sound and feel preferences to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a snappy and clacky typing experience with a bouncy and creamy feel, then the V3 Piano Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more subdued sound profile with a neutral feel, the Gateron Type A might be more suited to your preferences. Consider what type of typing experience you value the most, whether it be a lively and crisp sound with a smooth actuation or a subdued sound with a moderate feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
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