Gateron Beer vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch. The Beer switch from Gateron is visually striking, emulating the look of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its translucent green housing. It offers a unique typing experience with its lightweight build and stepped tactility, resulting in a subtler tactile feel compared to other switches. The Beer switch also produces a distinct clacky sound, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch provides a smooth and solid typing feel, perfect for those who prefer a responsive keystroke. This switch offers a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback, making it ideal for both typists and gamers. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal, 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro share similar characteristics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboard.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Gateron Beer features a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the trend of creating a sharp and clear sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly affect the sound and feel of typing. While both the Gateron Beer and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience of these switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Beer switch is lighter in both aspects. The Beer switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This makes the Beer switch more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Beer switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro. The Beer switch with its 3.4 mm travel distance would provide a slightly quicker and more responsive typing experience, ideal for gamers looking for fast response times. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro with its 3.8 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, and while they offer slightly different experiences, they would ultimately provide similar results depending on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is also noted as resonant, offering a higher-pitched sound profile for an immersive auditory experience. This means that while both switches will provide satisfying audible feedback, the Matcha Greens may offer a slightly richer sound quality.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and stepped, providing a lightweight and subtle tactility during key presses. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, with a smooth and substantial feel that is sure to appeal to users looking for a more solid and responsive keystroke. While the Beer switch focuses on a gentler typing experience, the Matcha Green Pro switch offers a more dynamic and lively feel with a variety of tactile sensations.
Overall, if you prefer a lighter touch and a stepped tactility with a characteristic clacky sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that provides a smooth, bouncy, and polished typing experience with resonant clacks, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch would be the way to go. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and ultimately, the decision between them would depend on the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider the bottom out force preference that suits your typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a unique translucent green aesthetic and distinctive clacky sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch with its 50-gram bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium bottom out force of 63 grams and enjoy a smooth, substantial keystroke experience with resonant clacks, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and enhances your overall typing enjoyment.
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