Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a unique experience with its snappy and crisp sound signature, making each keystroke lively and pleasing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" focuses on a lighter touch, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and produces a deeper sound profile. While the V3 Piano Pro is described as bouncy, clacky, and silky, the Type L is characterized as neutral, subdued, and feathery. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Type L are both made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing, ensuring consistency in sound quality and feel across the entire switch.
However, while both switches share the same housing material, the specific design and construction of the top and bottom housings may vary between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Type L. The qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released, providing a unique typing experience depending on the switch design.
In terms of performance, users can expect similar sound profiles and typing experiences from both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Type L due to their shared use of nylon housing. The softer nature of nylon allows for a more muted and rounded sound, creating a pleasant typing experience that is consistent across both switches. Whether it's the bottom-out sound or the sound when releasing a key, the nylon housing of these switches ensures a deep and full sound profile that typists will appreciate.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Piano Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The V3 Piano Pro falls into the medium-light category, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Type L is classified as a light switch, providing a smoother and easier typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the V3 Piano Pro catering to those who prefer a slightly heavier feel, while the Type L is ideal for individuals seeking a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Type L is the longer option while the V3 Piano Pro is the shorter option. Their travel distances may impact the typing or gaming experience differently. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Type L. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming 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 Type L 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 renowned for its clacky and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and snappy sound profile with a higher pitch that immerses the user in an auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for various purposes while delivering a dampened and subtle sound signature. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the V3 Piano Pro leaning towards a livelier and crisper sound, while the Type L provides a more mellow and understated acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch boasts a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing sensation, offering a spring-like feedback, smooth and buttery keystrokes, refined finish, and exceptionally smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch provides a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal exertion from the user's fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the V3 Piano Pro focuses on providing a vibrant and luxurious typing feel, the Type L prioritizes comfort and effortless key presses for prolonged daily use.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Piano Pro excels in providing a lively, clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy typing experience, while the Type L stands out for its neutral, subdued sound profile and feathery, easy-to-press feel. Depending on personal preferences and intended usage, users can choose between the crisp and vibrant sound of the V3 Piano Pro or the subtle and comfortable sound of the Type L, ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual needs. Ultimately, both switches guarantee a high level of performance and a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you value a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a snappy and smooth typing experience with a distinct sound signature, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch that offers a gentle and feathery typing sensation with a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type L switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align more closely with your personal typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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