Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly choice that provides a satisfying poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience coupled with a creamy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° sets itself apart with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that appeal to different users, 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making them visually appealing options for those looking to customize their keyboard setups.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes nylon while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also opts for nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the top housing's polycarbonate material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both switches impacts the overall sound profile and typing experience. The split design between the top and bottom housing means that each material contributes distinct qualities to the typing feel. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro leans towards a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a slightly heavier typing experience, which may suit those who prefer a more substantial push feel. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° provides a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be more suitable for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for travel distance and key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a poppy, clacky sound that adds a vibrant auditory experience to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° emphasizes on reducing noise and delivering a silent typing experience with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. Your choice of board and keycaps will also play a role in the overall sound produced by these switches.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for being easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This contributes to a comfortable and effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use. Additionally, the Cream Yellow Pro V3 is described as feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel that is smooth and refined. Meanwhile, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offers a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise but further details on the specific feel of the switch are unknown.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cream Yellow Pro V3 offers a colorful auditory experience paired with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent typing and stability with an emphasis on reducing noise. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Keep in mind that results can be similar depending on the rest of your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a budget-friendly option that offers a satisfying combination of sound and smoothness, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° could be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics and features that align best with your typing needs and preferences.
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