Bsun Cliff vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear can greatly influence your typing and gaming experience. The Bsun Cliff tactile switches provide a medium level of tactility that is paired with a crisp sound signature, making them a great option for users who enjoy feedback with every keystroke, enhancing both typing accuracy and satisfaction. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches are designed for a smoother experience, offering a solid and responsive keystroke that culminates in a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out. Their construction emphasizes a bouncy and clacky feel, appealing to those who appreciate a clear audio response and seamless keypresses during intense gaming sessions or long typing marathons. While the Cliff switches are perfect for those seeking tactile feedback, the Matcha Green Pro caters to lovers of smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes. 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
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both incorporate polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to their sound profile in notably similar ways. The use of polycarbonate in this context results in a sound that is sharp, high-pitched, and crisp, providing a resonant quality that enhances the auditory feedback received while typing. This similarity in material allows both switches to shine when it comes to RGB lighting since the translucency of polycarbonate effectively diffuses light and offers a vibrant visual experience. Thus, users can expect a comparable performance in terms of both acoustics and aesthetics when using either switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Bsun Cliff and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro is constructed from nylon, a material known for its unique sound characteristics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than its harder counterparts. This parallel in bottom housing materials ensures that both switches deliver a consistent typing experience characterized by a rounder, mellower auditory feedback while striking keys. As with the top housing, this shared material choice leads to similar performance across both models, particularly during the bottoming out phase of key presses.
The interplay between the materials used in the top and bottom housings is crucial for the overall tactile and auditory experience of each switch. The polycarbonate top housing accentuates the higher-frequency sounds while releasing the key, while the nylon bottom housing provides a more robust sound during the actuation. Since both the Bsun Cliff and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro utilize the same materials in each respective housing, users can expect to achieve similar results in typing feedback, sound quality, and aesthetic appeal, regardless of which switch they choose. By employing complementary materials, both switches deliver a satisfying, comprehensive typing experience that highlights what each material has to offer.
Weight
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, appealing to those who seek a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Therefore, the Cliff is the lighter option, while the V3 is the heavier one. Users looking for a comfortable typing experience over long periods may gravitate towards the Cliff, whereas those who appreciate a firmer push should consider the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch features 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 makes the Cliff the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation times. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance offers a little more room for a more hearty depth, which may be preferred by users who like a more gradual keystroke. While both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Cliff’s shorter distance potentially provides a more immediate response, whereas the V3 Matcha Green Pro can cater to those seeking a fuller typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 sound profile of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch distinguishes itself with a medium tactility and a crisp signature, offering an engaging auditory experience with a clean snap when activated. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch produces a notably clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and percussive quality that many find satisfying. It also exhibits resonant qualities, providing a bright and immersive acoustic experience. Both switches have unique sound characteristics, with the Cliff's crispness balancing against the Matcha Green Pro’s emphasis on a punchier, lively auditory effect. However, it's important to note that the final sound will also heavily depend on the specific keyboard build and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Cliff switch is noted for its medium tactility, creating a responsive sensation that typists and gamers can appreciate. Meanwhile, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches deliver an entirely different experience, boasting a bouncy sensation that gives a lively, spring-like feedback with each keystroke. Additionally, the creamy and polished qualities of the Matcha Green Pro ensure a smooth and silky typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. In comparison, the tactile bump of the Cliff offers a sharp but less nuanced feeling than the luxurious smoothness and tactile feedback provided by the Matcha Green Pro.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch present their own unique auditory and tactile experiences to the user. The Cliff is suited for those who prefer a sharper, more defined tactile interaction with a crisp sound, while the Matcha Green Pro appeals to those who enjoy a smoother, springy feel accompanied by a lively, clacky sound. Depending upon personal preference for sound and feel, both options can cater to different typing styles and usage scenarios, allowing newcomers to fine-tune their choices based on what resonates best with their crafting experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch largely depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you're drawn to a lighter and more lively typing experience with a medium level of tactility, the Cliff switches may be ideal for you. These switches are well-suited for typists who appreciate a crisp sound and enjoy tactile feedback without too much resistance, making them great for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a solid, smooth feel with a bit more weight in your key presses, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is likely the better option. With its medium bottom-out force and a satisfying, bouncy response, these switches are perfect for gamers or anyone who enjoys the resonance and clackiness of each keystroke, offering a more substantial connection with your keyboard. Ultimately, by considering your personal typing style and the auditory and tactile feedback you desire, you can make an informed decision that enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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