Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black can pose a dilemma for enthusiasts. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch renowned for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black also a linear switch, is celebrated for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. While the Crystal Pro is described as 'bouncy' and 'polished', the Ink Box Black is labeled as 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'silky', and 'polished'. With these general pointers in mind, 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
48g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Ink Box Black feature housing materials that contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Crystal Pro offers a clear and resonant sound, enhanced by its translucency which is perfect for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a thin and clacky sound that is pointed and satisfying. While both materials aim for a similar sound profile, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate leans towards a crisper sound, while the INK blend of the Ink Box Black provides a slightly less sharp tone.
In terms of housing materials, the bottom housings of the V3 Crystal Pro and the Ink Box Black also play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile, while the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black offers a slightly less sharp, yet still satisfying clacky sound. These differences in bottom housing materials result in varying levels of impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switches.
While there are some differences in sound profiles between the V3 Crystal Pro and the Ink Box Black due to their housing materials, both switches ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience with unique qualities. Whether it's the crisper and higher-pitched sound of the polycarbonate housing in the V3 Crystal Pro or the slightly less sharp clacky sound of the INK blend housing in the Ink Box Black, users can expect a pleasant typing experience that meets their preferences for sound and feel. In the end, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preferences in sound profile and overall typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro requires a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Ink Box Black's 60 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a balance between lightness and heaviness, catering to different preferences depending on individual typing styles and needs. Overall, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly longer than the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, while the Ink Box Black may provide a slightly snappier response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal 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 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bright and chirpy sound signature, giving it a unique acoustic quality that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is characterized as bouncy and polished, providing a lively and smooth typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize a refined and comfortable feel that can contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Crystal Pro excels in providing a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the Ink Box Black stands out with its clacky sound and silky feel. Ultimately, both switches provide smooth and polished typing experiences, with slight variations in sound profiles that may appeal to different users. Experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycaps can help determine the best option based on personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. If you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy switch with a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, the Gateron Ink Box Black would suit you well. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it comes down to personal preference for your typing experience.
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