HMX Cheese vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that may appeal to different types of users. The HMX Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light feel, providing a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a smooth and substantial typing experience with a solid and responsive keystroke, culminating in a sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback that both typists and gamers will appreciate. While the Cheese switch is lighter and may appeal to those looking for a lighter touch, the Matcha Green Pro switch is bouncy, clacky, and creamy, adding a unique element to the typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Ly
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The key difference between the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro lies in the type of plastics used. The Cheese features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer composition. While both plastics offer unique acoustic characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound preference.
Interestingly, both the Cheese and the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared material results in a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softness allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics. While the bottom housing may not be as immediately noticeable as the top housing in terms of sound profile, it still plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience of the switch. Therefore, users can expect a consistent sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housing of these switches.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cheese and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro comes down to subtle differences in sound profile brought about by their respective top housing materials. The nylon top housing of the Cheese creates a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deep and full sound profile. Ultimately, users looking for a specific sound profile may lean towards one switch over the other based on the characteristics of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is the lighter option. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is on the heavier side, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. The V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with different preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cheese would be the ideal choice, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro is better suited for those who prefer a heavier, more tactile feel while typing.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Cheese has a shorter travel distance compared to the Matcha Green Pro. The 0.3 mm difference may not be significant to some users, but for those who are more sensitive to keypress feel, this variance could be noticeable. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Cheese switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more traditional and deeper keystroke experience may opt for the Matcha Green Pro switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts typing or gaming performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch is best known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience that is light on the ears. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a resonant sound profile that is sharp and immersive, appealing to those who enjoy a cleaner and sharper auditory feedback while typing or gaming. Both switches excel in providing distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of your choice.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a buttery and effortless keystroke that is highly satisfying. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch provides a solid and responsive keystroke with a bouncy and lively feel, allowing for a dynamic typing sensation that is both enjoyable and engaging. Additionally, the Matcha Green Pro switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, further enhancing the smoothness and refinement of the typing experience. Both switches prioritize comfort and tactility, ensuring a premium typing feel that caters to individual preferences.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cheese and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, they both excel in providing a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a light and crispy sound with smooth keystrokes or a resonant and solid sound with bouncy and creamy feedback, both switches are designed to satisfy a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cheese linear switch or the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a unique clacky sound profile, the Cheese switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a smooth and substantial feel that offers a resonant sound profile, the Matcha Green Pro switch could be the better option for you. Consider your typing preferences and the characteristics of each switch to make an informed decision that will enhance your overall typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs and typing style.
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