Gateron CJ vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come to mind are the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, also a linear switch. The CJ switch stands out for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is known for its smooth and substantial feel, providing a solid and responsive keystroke with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out. Both switches offer different characteristics and appeal to different preferences, with the CJ switch being categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', while the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch falls under 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these general descriptions so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, it is evident that they differ significantly. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and high-pitched sound profile described as clacky. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, crisper sound profile that is more resonant due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the CJ's INK blend top housing provides a thin and higher-pitched sound, in contrast to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate housing creating a clearer and sharper sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the differences between the CJ and the V3 Matcha Green Pro are equally distinct. The CJ utilizes a POM bottom housing, which produces a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering a fuller and deeper sound experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to POM, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile. While both materials create unique sound profiles, the CJ's POM bottom housing leans towards a deeper and more muted sound, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller and rounder sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro play a crucial role in shaping the sound experience of the switches. While the CJ's INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing provide a more pointed and deeper sound profile, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a sharper and fuller sound experience. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the impact that housing materials have on sound quality, with each material contributing unique characteristics to the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the CJ has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the CJ at 60 grams and the V3 Matcha Green Pro at 63 grams. This means that while the CJ may provide a slightly lighter typing experience, both switches offer a medium level of resistance when fully pressed down. The lighter actuation force of the CJ may be preferable for those who find it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The CJ offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a standard key feel. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the CJ has a slightly longer travel distance, which may feel more substantial to some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy sound profile, which adds a unique acoustic signature to the typing experience. This switch offers a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart from others, providing a distinctive auditory feedback that some users may find appealing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch produces a clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience. The sound profile is described as crisp and bright, providing a satisfying auditory feedback for typists and gamers. Ultimately, both switches offer different sound characteristics, catering to a range of preferences depending on individual preference and typing environment.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as having a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. This switch provides a smooth push feel that is approachable to most users, making it a versatile option for a variety of typing tasks. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy and creamy feel. The switch offers a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience, making each keystroke feel responsive and satisfying. The polished and silky finish of the switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, providing a luxurious typing experience for users.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the CJ switch provides a chirpy sound and mild typing experience, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel. Both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, with users likely to find their preferred switch based on their sound and feel preferences. Additionally, the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a unique and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron CJ switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 63 grams and appreciate a solid, responsive keystroke with sharp bottom-outs and resonant clacks, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch would be a great fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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