Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the linear Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the tactile Gateron Quinn. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn switches provide a unique combination of crisp, light tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile due to their specially designed nylon housings. While the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Quinn is described as 'Snappy', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Accented', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', and 'Resonant'. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Quinn, we can see a clear distinction in the type of plastics used. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a crisper sound experience with the V3 Crystal Pro and a more rounded sound with the Gateron Quinn. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro allows for RGB lighting, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
In terms of impact on typing experience, the housing materials of the switches play a significant role. The polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro impacts both the bottom-out sound and the sound when a key is released, providing a consistent and clear sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Gateron Quinn focuses more on the bottom-out sound, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. This difference in sound profile can cater to different preferences, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a crisper sound and the Gateron Quinn providing a rounder sound for typists.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Gateron Quinn differ in terms of their impact on sound profile and typing experience, they both offer quality components for mechanical keyboards. The polycarbonate and nylon materials each bring their unique characteristics to the switches, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound. Whether using the V3 Crystal Pro or the Gateron Quinn, both switches provide reliable performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the Quinn needs 67 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the V3 Crystal Pro more comfortable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Quinn. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. In this case, the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. This means that the Quinn may provide a slightly faster response time due to the shorter distance traveled when typing or gaming. However, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique advantages based on their travel distances, so users can expect similar results in terms of keypress performance.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy sound signature, distinguished by a unique squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a bassy and resonant sound profile, which adds depth and character to the typing experience. While the Crystal Pro delivers a bright and lively sound, the Quinn offers a deeper and more immersive auditory experience. Both switches provide distinct acoustic qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Crystal Pro sounding chirpy and the Quinn being more bassy and resonant.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is described as bouncy and polished, offering a spring-like elasticity and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is characterized as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. It provides a responsive and lively typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. The Quinn switch offers a balance between tactile feedback and smoothness, providing users with a comfortable and enjoyable typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile characteristics that enhance the typing experience, with the Crystal Pro feeling bouncy and polished, and the Quinn feeling snappy and buttery.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinctive sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Pro provides a chirpy sound and a bouncy, polished feel, while the Quinn offers a bassy, resonant sound and a snappy, buttery feel. Both switches deliver unique typing experiences that can enhance the overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering quality and performance in their own right.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and appreciate a deep, resonant sound with a crisp, clean, and precise tactile bump, the Quinn switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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