SP-Star Ayara vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique typing experiences. The Ayara switch is best known for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a smooth and substantial feel, with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback. While the Ayara switch is categorized as 'neutral,' 'high-pitched,' and 'polished,' the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is categorized as 'bouncy,' 'clacky,' 'creamy,' 'polished,' 'resonant,' and 'silky.' Each switch has its own strengths, making them appealing to different preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, one significant difference lies in their top housings. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro boasts a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the switch that is not present in the Ayara.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Ayara and the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Despite having different top housings, the switches share a similar characteristic in their bottom housing material, which may lead to comparable typing experiences in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the Ayara's nylon top housing offers a duller and rounder sound, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing delivers a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, giving the switch a more visually appealing look. However, both switches share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, the Ayara has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 62 grams for the Ayara and 63 grams for the V3 Matcha Green Pro, making them medium in terms of resistance. The Ayara provides a smoother initial keystroke without a specific actuation force, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro requires a slightly heavier initial push at 55 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ayara may be more suitable, especially for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the V3 Matcha Green Pro with its slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium bottom out force, providing a consistent typing experience for users seeking that level of resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4.0mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances, making them suitable for gamers seeking faster response times. However, the Ayara switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for various users and settings. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound that provides a crisp and sharp auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Ayara switch may be preferable for those seeking a moderate sound, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is ideal for individuals who enjoy a more percussive and vibrant sound with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch provides a bouncy and creamy feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation and a buttery smooth typing experience. Both switches feature a polished feel, which enhances the overall typing experience by ensuring sleek and effortless key presses.
Overall, the SP-Star Ayara and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ayara switch provides a neutral sound and polished feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a clacky sound and bouncy, creamy sensation. Individuals looking for a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound may prefer the Ayara switch, while those seeking a smooth and substantial typing experience with a sharp bottom-out and resonant sound may lean towards the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the ideal option based on their desired sound and feel qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star Ayara linear switch or the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, then the Ayara switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and substantial keystroke with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches might be more suitable. Consider the actuation force, sound profile, and feel that best align with your typing style and preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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