Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heftier 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, providing a medium-heavy typing experience ideal for those who seek a substantial feel while typing. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a smooth and responsive keystroke, with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback that appeals to both typists and gamers. While the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in delivering a balanced medium-heavy feel and medium-high pitch auditory experience, the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides resonant clacks and a satisfyingly polished keystroke. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Partial box
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro boasts a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing leans towards a higher pitch, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing delivers a clearer and resonant sound.
On the underside, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a POM bottom housing to produce a unique, deeper, and more muted sound profile. This contrasts with the V3 Matcha Green Pro, which features a nylon bottom housing known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both bottom housings result in a deeper sound profile, the POM housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black may provide a slightly more muted tone compared to the nylon housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro, which offers a rounder sound quality. Overall, these differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch.
In terms of typing experience, the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the sound and feel of each key press is significant. The qualities of the bottom housing material are more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the unique combinations of housing materials in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro result in distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams, which is heavier than the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 63 grams. Both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience. Some users may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the stronger push feel of the G Pro 3.0 Black for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them ideal for gamers looking for quick response times. The G Pro 3.0 Black is the longer of the two, with a 4 mm travel distance, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro is slightly shorter at 3.8 mm. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a slightly deeper keystroke compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are described as "clacky," providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch sound, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro gives off a higher-pitched, more resonant sound profile. Ultimately, both switches will deliver a satisfying auditory experience, with slight differences that may appeal to individual preferences. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with medium-heavy actuation and bottom-out forces. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches provide a bouncy and creamy feel, giving a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience. Both switches offer a solid and responsive keystroke, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a more substantial feel, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a somewhat livelier sensation. Whether you prefer a more substantial or a bouncier typing experience, both switches are designed to deliver a gratifying feel while typing.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both aim to provide a premium typing experience. Whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black for its medium-heavy feel and medium-high pitch sound, or choose the V3 Matcha Green Pro for its bouncy feel and resonant sound profile, you can expect a satisfying and responsive typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a more medium-heavy feel and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smoother and more substantial keystroke with a sharp bottom-out feedback and a resonant sound profile, the V3 Matcha Green Pro could be the better choice. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, and make your decision based on that preference. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs.
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