Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko Cream Black Pro V3 switches are a great choice for those on a budget who seek high-quality performance in their mechanical keyboards. Known for their distinctive poppy and clacky sound, these switches are incredibly smooth and offer a bouncy feel during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches stand out for their crisp tactile bump and deep, resonant sound profile, creating an immersive typing experience with each keystroke. While the Cream Black Pro V3 is categorized as 'creamy', 'high-pitched', and 'bouncy', the Quinn is described as 'snappy', 'bassy', and 'resonant'. 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
55g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
20mm
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Quinn switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This commonality means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro's top housing is made of polycarbonate, while the Quinn features a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, nylon in the Quinn's top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. This difference in top housing material will result in a distinct sound profile and typing experience between the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Quinn switches.
Overall, the choice between the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Quinn switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing. The V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing may appeal to those seeking a sharper and crisper sound, while the Quinn's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches share the use of nylon in the bottom housing, providing a consistent typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their desired sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is clear that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Quinn's 59 grams, however, both have a similar bottom out force of 65 and 67 grams respectively. This means that users who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions may lean towards the V3 Cream Black Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Quinn. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with the option to choose based on their personal preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, slightly shorter than the Gateron Quinn tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While the difference in travel distance between the two switches may seem minimal, it can still impact the typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro may provide a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, the Quinn switch with its slightly longer travel distance may offer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer a middle ground between the traditional 4.0 mm and the more shallow 3.0 mm travel distances, providing a balance between responsiveness and key press depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn 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 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched and poppy sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each key press. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a deep, resonant, and bassy sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience, with a rich and immersive tone that resonates on each keystroke. If you prefer a more high-pitched and sharp sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro would be a suitable choice, while the Quinn switch appeals to those who enjoy a deeper, more resonant sound during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is described as offering a creamy and bouncy typing experience, with smooth and buttery key presses that glide effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a snappy, polished, and bouncy feel, ensuring a responsive and smooth key travel that results in a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer a similar level of bounce and snappiness in their tactile feedback, making them suitable choices for users who prefer lively and polished key presses.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cream Black Pro stands out with its high-pitched and creamy sound profile, along with a bouncy and smooth typing experience, while the Quinn switch offers a deep, resonant sound and a snappy, polished feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience, both switches provide excellent options for those seeking a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a smooth and poppy sound profile, complemented by a creamy typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a crisp and tactile bump with a deep, resonant sound, along with a polished and snappy typing feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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