Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The V3 Piano Pro is renowned for its snappy sound signature, providing a lively and crisp quality to keystrokes, while maintaining a smooth actuation for a tactile experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, delivering unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise for silent typing. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is that the V3 Piano Pro utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Zero Degree 0° uses polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for the V3 Piano Pro, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° has a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° allows for better RGB lighting effects, compared to the opaque nylon housing of the V3 Piano Pro.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials of the V3 Piano Pro and the Zero Degree 0° play a significant role in the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Zero Degree 0° may not have as much of an impact on the sound compared to the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° utilize nylon in their housing materials, the differing top housing materials significantly impact the sound profile of each switch. The V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile is further emphasized by the translucent polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0°, providing a unique aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting effects not found in the V3 Piano Pro.
Weight
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial keystroke activation. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the V3 Piano Pro requires a slightly heavier force of 55 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0°, which has an unknown bottom out force. This difference means that the V3 Piano Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance when pressing all the way down. In terms of weight, the V3 Piano Pro could be considered on the lighter side, which may be ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. Meanwhile, the Zero Degree 0° may offer a lighter overall feel due to its unknown bottom out force, making it a potential choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a quicker and more responsive feel may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro, while those who enjoy a bit more depth when pressing down on a key may prefer the Zero Degree 0°. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference and the 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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° 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
The V3 Piano Pro linear switch is best known for its snappy and resonant sound signature, creating a lively and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on delivering unparalleled smoothness and stability, absorbing sound to reduce noise during typing. The sound produced by the V3 Piano Pro is described as clacky and resonant, while the sound profile of the Zero Degree 0° is not specified. When it comes to feel, the V3 Piano Pro offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth, buttery sensation. In comparison, the feel of the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not specified in the available information. Overall, while the V3 Piano Pro excels in providing a pleasing tactile experience with its snappy sound and smooth actuation, the specific qualities of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch in terms of sound and feel are not detailed. As a result, while you can expect a similar level of smoothness and stability from both switches, the unique auditory and tactile qualities of each switch may vary.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and enjoy a snappy and resonant sound signature, the V3 Piano Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an innovative self-padding design, delivering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and reduced noise, the Zero Degree 0° could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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