Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Gateron Weightlessness offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Akko V3 Silver Pro, designed specifically with gamers in mind, boasts an easy-to-press, feathery actuation that allows for lightning-fast responses and a smooth, creamy keystroke. The bassy sound produced by each press adds a satisfying auditory feedback, making it a favorite among competitive players who prioritize speed and precision. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switches deliver a tactile bump that provides users with a subtle but noticeable feedback with each keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience. Balancing a tactile feel with a harmonious sound profile, these switches cater to typists and casual gamers alike. While the Akko V3 Silver Pro excels in rapid response times perfect for intense gaming sessions, the Gateron Weightlessness ensures a comfortable and satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Gateron Weightlessness, a primary distinction lies in their top housing materials. The V3 Silver Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows for more resonance, creating clear and sharp audio feedback during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon’s softer composition, which absorbs more sound and leads to a more muted auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material results in contrasting sound signatures, appealing to different preferences for typing acoustics.
Interestingly, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which contributes a level of auditory consistency between the two. The nylon bottom housing in both the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Gateron Weightlessness enhances the depth and fullness of the sound produced when bottoming out. This shared material means that, despite their differences in top housing, both switches will deliver a similar bottoming sound—a characteristic of overlaid nylon softness that dampens sound for a rounder resonance. This commonality allows for a degree of acoustic similarity when the switches are fully engaged, making them more compatible in sound and feel during use.
Ultimately, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Gateron Weightlessness offer distinct sound profiles due to their differing top housing materials, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches ensures a convergence in their overall acoustic experience. Users can expect sharper sounds from the V3 Silver Pro and more muted tones from the Weightlessness when keys are released, but the bottoming out experience will provide a fuller auditory experience, thanks to nylon's sound-dampening properties. As such, those interested in an optimal typing experience might choose between these options based on their preference for either a clearer or a more subdued sound profile, knowing that the housed nylon will deliver a consistent deep sound when the switches are engaged.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The V3 Silver Pro features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons, while the Weightlessness switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer. In terms of bottom out forces, the V3 Silver Pro has a defined bottom out force of 45 grams, ensuring a satisfying tactile response at the end of the keystroke. However, the Gateron Weightlessness switch lacks a specified bottom out force, which makes it difficult to determine how it compares in this aspect. Overall, users seeking a lighter typing experience would benefit more from the V3 Silver Pro, whereas those who enjoy a firmer touch may gravitate toward the Gateron Weightlessness, despite not knowing its bottom-out characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we find that the V3 Silver Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Weightlessness has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that, while the difference is minimal, those who prefer quicker responses would likely favor the shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more substantial depth when pressing keys might find the Weightlessness switch more to their liking. Both switches are designed for different tactile experiences, appealing to specific user preferences, but the V3 Silver Pro offers a bit more speed due to its shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver Pro for $3.10.
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches emit a pleasing bassy tone, contributing to a rich auditory experience during use. This sound profile contrasts nicely with the sharp and crisp sound produced by high-pitched switches, creating a unique atmosphere for gaming and typing. In comparison, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches do not have an explicit sound profile provided; however, their balanced sound profile suggests that they will complement their tactile characteristics well. Ultimately, the overall sound experience will be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used in conjunction with these switches.
In terms of feel, the V3 Silver Pro switches are designed to provide an exceptionally easy-to-press experience, requiring minimal force to actuate. This gentle resistance, coupled with qualities like creaminess, silkiness, and a polished texture, results in a smooth and effortless typing experience. The feathery aspect of these switches also aids in reducing finger fatigue, making them ideal for long sessions of gaming or typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches offer a subtle to moderate tactile feel. While the specifics of their typing feel are unknown, they may provide a distinct tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience, setting them apart from the smooth and buttery characteristics of the V3 Silver Pro.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Gateron Weightlessness switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The V3 Silver Pro excels in providing a unique bassy sound and a remarkably smooth typing experience, emphasizing ease of actuation and reduced fatigue. Meanwhile, the Weightlessness switches offer a different tactile experience, although details on their sound profile remain unspecified. For users seeking a smoother and more effortless experience, the V3 Silver Pro is an excellent choice, while those looking for tactile feedback might find the Gateron Weightlessness appealing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile sensations during use.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing and gaming preferences. If you are a gamer who thrives on speed and quick reactions, the V3 Silver Pro is an excellent choice. Its light actuation force of 45 grams, combined with a short travel distance, allows for rapid key presses, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming scenarios where every keystroke counts. Additionally, its creamy and polished feel, coupled with a pleasing bassy sound, provides an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more nuanced typing experience with a tactile response, the Gateron Weightlessness switch could be what you’re looking for. Known for its subtle tactile feedback, it offers a balanced sound profile that complements a variety of typing styles, making it suitable for both casual and professional use. Ultimately, consider your primary use case: for high-speed gaming, opt for the V3 Silver Pro; for balanced tactile feedback in daily typing tasks, the Weightlessness would be the way to go.
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