Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Gateron Glory Yellow and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro each present unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Glory Yellow, known for its smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, is the heavier option within its lineup, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience without any bumps or interruptions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, appealing to both typists and gamers who enjoy a solid and responsive keystroke complemented by a satisfying auditory feedback. While both switches fall under the linear category, their distinct qualities make them suitable for various users; the Glory Yellow provides a more streamlined typing experience, while the Matcha Green Pro adds a lively flair to each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches present a fascinating study of materials in their housing, particularly how these differences affect sound profiles during use. The Gateron Glory Yellow features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This construction allows the nylon to effectively absorb sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience that many typists appreciate for its satisfying dampening effect. Conversely, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer structure. This material produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, leading to a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, especially beneficial for users who enjoy a more vibrant acoustic feedback when typing.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, an interesting similarity emerges. Both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This choice creates a consistent deep and full sound profile in both switches, despite the differences in their top housing materials. Consequently, when users press down on either switch, they will experience the same deeper sound and feel, attributing to the nylon's ability to absorb sound. This commonality highlights how the bottom housing can impact the switching experience significantly, contributing to the overall tactile feedback and resulting sound when a key is bottomed out.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches leads to a unique and layered typing experience for users. The Gateron Glory Yellow's nylon top housing lends a softer sound experience while the polycarbonate of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro delivers a brighter auditory feedback during key releases. Together, these materials create distinct sound profiles that can cater to different typing preferences. However, since both switch designs employ nylon in their bottom housings, users will find common ground in the base sound produced, resulting in a similarity that can enhance usability across varying typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Glory Yellow features a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This makes the Glory Yellow better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue, ideal for workplace environments or long gaming periods. In contrast, the Matcha Green Pro, with its heavier actuation force and a known bottom out force of 63 grams, caters to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, providing a satisfying resistance upon keystroke. The bottom out force of the Glory Yellow remains unknown, so we can't compare that aspect. However, due to its lighter actuation force, the Gateron Glory Yellow is the more suitable option for those who prioritize reduced strain during longer use, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro may appeal to users seeking a firmer response in their key presses.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch features 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. This means that the Glory Yellow switch offers a more substantial depth when pressed, which could be more advantageous for users who prefer a hearty feel and a traditional typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers and those who prioritize quicker response times, as the reduced distance can lead to faster actuation. Consequently, if you favor a deeper feel in your keystrokes, the Gateron Glory Yellow would be the preferable choice. However, if you seek a more responsive switch, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro would be more suitable. Thus, while both switches serve distinct preferences, the Glory Yellow is the longer option at 4 mm, compared to the shorter 3.8 mm of the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch tends to lean towards being subdued yet pleasant, creating a more muted audio experience that some users may prefer for an office environment or where quieter operation is sought. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out with its distinctively clacky sound profile, delivering sharp and snappy auditory feedback that irritates or energizes with its crispness and brightness. The Matcha Greens produce resonant clacks, enhancing the auditory experience significantly, making them a notable choice for those who relish a more pronounced sound when typing.
The feel of the Gateron Glory Yellow is characterized by its smooth keystroke, providing a satisfying travel distance that many typists find enjoyable. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro excels with its creamy, polished, and silky qualities, presenting a refined typing sensation that glides smoothly beneath your fingers. This combination of attributes results in a solid and responsive keystroke, delivering tactile feedback that can be both gratifying for serious typists and gaming enthusiasts alike.
In summary, while both switches may offer enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Gateron Glory Yellow leans towards a smoother and more muted interaction, ideal for environments requiring less noise. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a more auditory and tactile feedback-driven experience, making it preferable for users seeking both sound and a luxurious feel. These unique traits set them apart, allowing keyboard enthusiasts to select based on their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a lighter touch with a smooth keystroke and subtle feedback, the Glory Yellow would be your go-to option. This switch is well-suited for those who find enjoyment in a gentle typing experience, where the focus is on fluidity rather than heavy impact. On the other hand, if you desire a more substantial feel with a bit more resistance, then the V3 Matcha Green Pro is ideal for you. This switch not only provides a satisfying tactile response and resonant sound profile but also gives you that reassuring feedback with each keystroke, making it perfect for both typists and gamers who appreciate a more pronounced interaction with their keyboard. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prefer the effortless glide of the Glory Yellow or the creamy, polished response of the Matcha Green Pro, both of which cater to different typing experiences.
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