Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro stand out for their unique characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, is praised for its heavy feel and medium-high pitch, perfect for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, offers a satisfying tactile bump and a higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a bouncy and polished typing feel. While each switch has its own strengths and appeals, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, we can see that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Despite these differences, both materials offer a distinct sound experience with their own nuances.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM material creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The use of POM in the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a unique sound experience that is distinct from the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. While both materials offer a deeper sound profile, the differing properties of POM and nylon contribute to subtle variations in the overall sound experience of each switch.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of these switches. While the top housing materials offer differences in pitch and clarity, the bottom housing materials contribute to the depth and fullness of the sound. By understanding the unique properties of each material, users can make an informed decision based on their preference for sound characteristics when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different weights in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing periods or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a medium-heavy and medium-light feel respectively, catering to different preferences in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their keyboard.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, we can see that the G Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the V3's 3.8 mm. The G Pro offers a more traditional feel with its 4.0mm travel distance, while the V3 provides a slightly shallower experience at 3.8mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the G Pro. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, but ultimately, it comes down to personal preference in determining which one suits your typing style and needs best.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is known for its clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile. This means that when typing on a keyboard with these switches, you can expect a sharp, snappy sound that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch's sound profile is not specified in the information provided. This means that it's hard to directly compare the sound qualities of the two switches. However, based on the lack of specific descriptors for the Akko switch, it may provide a more standard and less distinctive sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy, silky, and subtle. This means that typing on a keyboard with these switches will offer a smooth, buttery experience with a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This indicates that the typing experience with these switches will provide a medium level of tactility, a spring-like feedback sensation, responsiveness, and a smooth key travel due to the polished finish. The differences in feel between the two switches suggest that the G Pro 3.0 Black may offer a more understated and smooth typing experience, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch may provide a more tactile and responsive feel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a balanced medium-heavy feel with a clacky and subdued sound profile, along with a smooth and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, as well as a more textured and responsive typing feel. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience or a more tactile and lively one, you can choose between these two switches to achieve your desired typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a balanced actuation, the G Pro 3.0 Black is an excellent choice. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile along with a creamy and subtle typing feel, this switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a delightful tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a great option. With a higher-pitched sound profile and features like accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and priorities.
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