KTT Ash Gray vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offer different typing experiences for users to consider. The ash gray switch is praised for its tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable without being overwhelming. Its easy-to-press, mild, neutral characteristics make it a popular choice for those who enjoy a light touch with a crisp actuation. On the other hand, the v3 matcha green pro switch provides a smooth and substantial feel with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out. Its bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, silky attributes cater to individuals who prefer a solid and responsive keystroke. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal typing style and 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
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, both keyboards will offer a similar experience when it comes to the top housing material.
The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the relatively softer plastic used in the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. The difference in bottom housing material between the two keyboards may lead to variations in the typing experience, with the Ash Gray providing a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel due to the properties of nylon.
Overall, the division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches will influence the typing experience on both the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro. While the top housing material affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. This distinction highlights the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when assessing the overall sound profile and typing feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires 53 grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro needs 63 grams. This means that the Ash Gray is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces. Both switches offer a medium level of actuation force, but the V3 Matcha Green Pro is slightly heavier overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Ash Gray has a shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Ash Gray due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the V3 Matcha Green Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 KTT Ash Gray switch is labeled as neutral, offering a moderate actuation force requirement with a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch produces a clacky and resonant sound, resulting in sharp and percussive tones, providing a lively auditory experience. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is characterized as easy-to-press and mild, offering gentle resistance during key presses with a light actuation force. This creates a low-impact typing experience that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. These switches offer a spring-like feedback, smooth and buttery key presses, reduced friction, and an exceptionally smooth typing sensation.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray switch provides a tactile response that is light with a crisp actuation, suitable for those seeking a blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. In comparison, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a smooth and substantial feel with a satisfying bottom-out, appealing to individuals who enjoy a solid and responsive keystroke. Both switches have their unique sound and feel profiles, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a neutral sound and easy-to-press feel or a clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel in your mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch or the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, you should take into account your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, a neutral sound profile, and an easy-to-press typing feel, the Ash Gray switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force, a clacky and resonant sound profile, and a bouncy or creamy typing feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
