Akko Botany vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro stand out as excellent options for enthusiasts who appreciate linear switches, each delivering a unique typing experience. The Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp, lively clacky sound right out of the box, making them an enticing choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are designed for those who favor a smooth and substantial feel, providing a sharp bottom-out sensation that typists and gamers alike find highly satisfying. Characterized by a range of qualities like ‘Bouncy’ and ‘Silky,’ the Matcha Green Pro not only delivers on responsiveness but also offers a resonant sound profile, setting them apart from the Botany’s lively clatter. Ultimately, while both switches have their strengths, the choice may come down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon Pro
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
Stainless steel spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko Botany and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro feature distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Botany uses nylon for its top housing, a material known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference in material not only affects the acoustic characteristics but also the overall typing experience; nylon tends to create a more muted sound whereas polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance, particularly valuable for users who appreciate bright sound profiles.
While both switches feature nylon in their bottom housing, the acoustic effects are further refined by the choice of top materials. The nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a robust and full sound when bottoming out, emphasizing a slightly softer typing feel that embodies some warmth. However, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing, the sharper notes resonate more distinctly, making for a more responsive sound experience during both keypresses and releases. The Botany's housing delivers a more consistent sound throughout the actuation, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a contrast that provides crisper highs in its auditory response.
Ultimately, the combined effect of the different materials leads to nuanced distinctions in the typing experience of each model. Users who favor the Botany will likely appreciate its muted, rounder sound profile that promotes a warm typing ambiance. Conversely, the V3 Matcha Green Pro caters to those who enjoy pronounced auditory feedback, akin to a musical high note during typing. Despite this divergence in materials, both switches maintain a commonality in their nylon bottom units, ensuring that users can still achieve deep and fuller sound characteristics when bottoming out. Therefore, while the individual sound profiles differ, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience reflective of their unique design choices.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Akko Botany linear switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for extended sessions at work or gaming. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro boasts a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile response while typing. This means that the Botany switch is the lighter option, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the heavier choice. As a result, users can expect a more effortless typing experience with the Botany switch, whereas the V3 Matcha Green Pro will provide a firmer push feel for those who favor added resistance.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Botany switch will provide a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who value quick key presses and speed. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro, with its longer travel distance, may be more suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced and deeper actuation for a more tactile experience. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter Botany switch is the better choice, whereas if you enjoy a more substantial keypress, the Matcha Green Pro would be preferable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Botany has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Botany for $3.11.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch stands out with its crisp, lively clacky profile, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. You'll experience a sharp and percussive sound with every keystroke, offering a bright and engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro also delivers a resonant and clacky sound, providing a similarly immersive experience. When using the Matcha Greens, you can expect a clean and sharp sound, enhancing the overall typing environment. Both switches promise a lively auditory experience, though they may manifest slightly differently depending on the keyboard and keycap combination utilized.
When it comes to feel, the distinct characteristics of the switches become more apparent. The Botany linear switch is noted for its enjoyable tactile response, providing consistent feedback with each keystroke, though specific descriptors for its feel were not noted. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. This switch is designed to provide a smooth glide, allowing your fingers to easily flow across the keys with a rebound effect that enhances responsiveness. The combination of these qualities results in a comfortable and gratifying typing experience that caters to both gamers and typists.
In conclusion, while both the Akko Botany and V3 Matcha Green Pro switches share a vibrant sound profile, they differ significantly in their tactile feel. The Botany provides a straightforward typing experience, while the Matcha Greens boast a more luxurious and refined feel, featuring bouncy and silky characteristics. Ultimately, if you thrive on auditory cues, either switch will satisfy your auditory cravings, but if you prioritize a smooth and responsive typing experience, the V3 Matcha Green Pro will likely be the more gratifying option.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter touch with a crisp, lively sound, the Botany switch is your go-to option. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for those who enjoy a quick and snappy response while typing, providing a delightful auditory experience that isn't too demanding on your fingers. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more substantial feel and a firmer keystroke, the 63-gram bottom-out force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be more suitable for you. This switch excels with its smooth, creamy feedback and sharp bottom-out, delivering an engaging and satisfying typing experience that resonates beautifully. Whether you prioritize the lively clacks of the Botany or the polished, responsive comfort of the Matcha Green Pro, your choice should reflect your typing style and auditory preferences, ensuring you find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard journey.
Mentioned in this article
