Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch that stands out for its budget-friendly price point while still providing high-quality performance. With a poppy and clacky sound, these switches are smooth and bouncy, appealing to those who enjoy a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is also a linear switch known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, reminiscent of shaking a paint can. This switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a silky and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, but 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
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black, the most notable difference lies in the top housing material. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more resonant sound. In contrast, the Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a slightly high-pitched but not overly sharp sound profile described as clacky. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, the choice between polycarbonate and the INK blend ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, the V3 Cream Black Pro opts for a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Box Black also utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, offering a similar high-pitched and clacky sound profile as the top housing material. While both switches seek to provide a satisfying typing experience, the choice between nylon and the INK blend for the bottom housing may come down to the desired sound profile and feel.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black bring unique characteristics to the table, they both aim to enhance the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. The V3 Cream Black Pro's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offers a balance between a sharp, high-pitched sound from the top housing and a deep, full sound from the bottom housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black's use of the INK blend for both top and bottom housing provides a consistent clacky sound profile throughout. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Black Pro is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Ink Box Black. The V3 Cream Black Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy switches, providing a balance between a light typing experience and a more substantial push feel. Players who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the V3 Cream Black Pro, while those seeking a stronger push feel may opt for the heavier force of the Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being slightly shorter, there may be a noticeable difference in feel between the two switches. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Gateron Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. This unique auditory experience can be a refreshing change for those who prefer a more lively sound while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a clacky sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, providing a satisfyingly bright and percussive noise with each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal taste and the overall sound profile desired for your typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is praised for its creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation that makes typing effortless and enjoyable. These switches are described as bouncy and snappy, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. In comparison, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch offers a silky typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness. With a polished finish, these switches ensure reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, with subtle differences in terms of feedback and texture.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches both offer impressive qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cream Black Pro excels in providing a high-pitched and creamy sound paired with a bouncy and snappy feel, while the Ink Box Black impresses with a clacky sound and a silky, polished typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both can offer a delightful typing experience with their unique qualities. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with a creamy feel or a bright clacky sound with a silky texture, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy and clacky sound, smoothness, and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that is incredibly smooth and creamy, with a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, and a slightly higher bottom out force, then the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider your desired typing experience, sound preference, and budget when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences.
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