Keygeek Briny vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both stand out among linear options, yet they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Briny is renowned for its balanced sound profile, thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing performance. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are designed for users who truly value a solid and responsive keystroke, featuring a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out that delivers resonant clacks – ideal for both typists and gamers looking for tactile feedback. While the Briny offers a more subdued and refined sound, the Matcha Green Pro boasts a lively and engaging auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
UPE
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, it is evident that they feature distinct choices for their top housings that affect their overall sound profiles. The Briny utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This contrasts significantly with the V3 Matcha Green Pro, which employs polycarbonate for its top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As a result, users of the Briny can expect a more muted auditory experience while typing, whereas those using the V3 Matcha Green Pro will enjoy a pronounced, clear sound, particularly when backlit with RGB lighting, which is optimized by the translucency of the polycarbonate material.
Interestingly, both the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, which creates a uniformity in sound characteristics between the two switches. The nylon's ability to absorb sound results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience, particularly when bottoming out. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housings mitigates some of the contrasts found in the top housings, as both switches will produce similar sound qualities during the actuation phase. Therefore, while the two switches deliver different tonal experiences based on their top materials, the presence of nylon in both bottom housings ensures that users will still perceive a depth of sound when pressing the keys.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different top and bottom housing materials in both the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro plays a pivotal role in defining their overall sound profiles. While the nylon top of the Briny favors a softer, muted sound experience, the polycarbonate top of the V3 Matcha Green Pro emphasizes a clearer and crisper auditory feedback. However, the nylon bottom in both models introduces a layer of acoustic consistency that softens their respective differences, allowing users to experience a differentiated typing sound while still benefiting from the richness that nylon provides during key actuation. In essence, while the switches offer varied soundscapes driven by their unique tops, they maintain a harmonizing characteristic at their bases due to the common nylon material.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch both exhibit medium actuation and bottom out forces, but they differ slightly in their measurements. The Briny requires a 50-gram actuation force and has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro necessitates a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Briny switch is the lighter option, making it potentially more comfortable for long typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Conversely, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel with its heavier forces. Overall, while users may achieve similar results in terms of performance due to both switches being in the medium range, the choice between lighter and heavier actuation forces ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, we see a discernible difference: the Briny has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Briny switch is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers looking for a quicker response time and a more responsive feel during fast-paced games. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a depthier experience, possibly favored by those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on personal preference: shorter travel distances lend themselves to swift action, while longer distances cater to those who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Briny has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Briny for $3.29.
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 Keygeek Briny linear switch produces a balanced sound profile, which likely means it offers a pleasant auditory experience without being overly harsh or too muted. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are known for their pronounced clacky and resonant nature, delivering a sharp, crisp sound that typists and gamers alike often find satisfying. This clarity in sound can create an immersive typing experience, making the V3 Matcha Green Pro a more engaging choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while they type. Overall, while both switches offer unique sound qualities, the Briny focuses on a more balanced output, whereas the Matcha Green Pro leans towards a lively and resonant sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Briny's specific qualities aren't detailed, leaving its tactile experience somewhat of a mystery. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is characterized by its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky sensations. This combination of textures ensures a lively and smooth typing experience, where each keystroke feels responsive and fluid. The bouncy feedback gives a springlike response, enhancing the enjoyment of typing, while the creamy and polished elements contribute to a slick and refined feel. This comprehensive and gratifying tactile feedback is likely to appeal to a wide range of users.
Overall, if you are choosing between the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches, you will find them catering to different preferences. The Briny offers a more balanced sound profile that can be pleasing without being overly pronounced, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro emphasizes a resonant and engaging auditory experience, complemented by an exceptionally smooth and responsive feel. While the feel of the Briny is unknown, you can expect a nice contrast in characteristics that will guide your decision based on whether sound or tactile feedback is more important in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a balanced sound profile combined with a medium resistance, the Briny offers a solid choice. Its unique UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing contribute to a satisfying yet neutral auditory experience, making it ideal for those who desire a more subtle sound while still enjoying a smooth and consistent key feel. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more tactile and auditory feedback during your typing or gaming sessions, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the way to go. With its higher bottom-out force, resonant clacks, and appealing bouncy and creamy feel, this switch is perfect for users who enjoy a pronounced and engaging response to every keystroke. In essence, choose the Briny for a refined and understated experience, and opt for the Matcha Green Pro if you seek excitement in both sound and tactile feedback.
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