Gateron Aliaz vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offer distinct experiences for users. The Aliaz switch stands out for its quiet operation, making it ideal for office settings or environments where noise is a concern. With a medium-heavy weight and a pronounced typing feedback, the Aliaz switch provides a satisfying feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a smooth and substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a solid and responsive typing experience. The Matcha Green Pro switch also delivers a sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback, perfect for both typists and gamers. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual dimension to the switch. However, while the sound profile may be similar for both switches, the overall typing experience could differ based on other factors such as keycap material or switch weight.
In contrast, the Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which further enhances the clear and resonant sound profile of the switch. This consistency in material between the top and bottom housing ensures a cohesive sound and feel when typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz.
While both switches may have similar top housings, the use of different materials for the bottom housing can lead to distinct typing experiences. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound upon bottoming out a key, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that can be tailored to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch. The Aliaz requires 60 grams to actuate and 75 grams to bottom out, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro needs 55 grams to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out. The Aliaz offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Both switches offer different benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Aliaz being the heavier option and the V3 Matcha Green Pro being the lighter option.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aliaz being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Matcha Green Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Aliaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green 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 Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted experience, perfect for environments where noise could be a concern, such as an office setting. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch produces a clacky and resonant sound, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Aliaz switch will result in a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the crisp and bright sound of the Matcha Green Pro switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, offering smoothness and reduced friction for seamless keystrokes. Conversely, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch gives a bouncy and creamy sensation, with a lively rebound when pressed and a buttery smooth feel that mimics gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Both switches mention a polished finish, indicating a sleek typing experience with reduced resistance and smooth key travel.
Considering the differences in sound and feel, individuals interested in a quiet typing experience with a substantial feel may prefer the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch. On the other hand, those seeking a loud and satisfyingly sharp bottom-out with a smooth and bouncy keystroke may gravitate towards the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch. Ultimately, the final choice will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and whether a quieter or more resonant typing experience is desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider the environment and your preferences. If you work in a quiet setting like an office and prefer a medium-heavy switch with a pronounced typing feedback, the Aliaz would be a suitable option for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smooth and substantial typing experience with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and don't mind a louder clacky sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
