HMX Hibiscus vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience. The HMX Hibiscus switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and a lightweight actuation force that surpasses 80% of all switches, making it an excellent option for those seeking an effortless keystroke with a notably clacky and crispy sound. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro boasts a robust and responsive feel, offering a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out experience that provides clear tactile feedback, ideal for typists and gamers who crave a more pronounced response. The Matcha Green Pro is celebrated for its resonant clacks and various tactile qualities, categorized by descriptors such as 'bouncy' and 'silky.' While both switches are linear in nature, targeting different preferences in sound and feel, they cater to distinct typing styles and sensations. 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, we find notable differences that influence their distinct sound profiles. The Hibiscus features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows the Hibiscus switch to absorb more sound, leading to a more muted keypress experience. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to the rigidity of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity. The visual differences between the two materials are also significant; the translucency of polycarbonate not only allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects but also affects the overall aesthetic appeal of the switch.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Hibiscus and the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilize nylon, creating a contrast to their respective top housing materials. The nylon bottom housing in the Hibiscus contributes to the switch's fuller sound profile, reinforcing its characteristics of sound absorption and muted acoustics. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing maintains the same softer qualities, enhancing the deeper sound experience during the bottom-out phase. Even though both switches share a nylon bottom, their overall auditory experience differs significantly due to the contrasting materials used in the top housings. This division suggests that each switch’s acoustic character is influenced differently during use, where the bottom housing plays a larger role in the quality of sound upon key press while the top housing impacts the release.
Ultimately, when considering overall performance, both switches offer unique experiences due to their varied top housing materials while sharing similarities in their bottom housings. The Hibiscus produces a deeper, rounder sound due to its softer top housing, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro's stiffer polycarbonate top housing provides clarity and sharpness. However, because both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, users will still experience a comparable level of depth and sound absorption during the bottoming-out phase, creating a blend of contrast and harmony in their acoustic profiles. Consequently, users seeking a specific auditory experience may prefer one switch over the other depending on their desired sound characteristics, while still benefiting from shared qualities in terms of the nylon bottom housing across both models.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch present distinct actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The Hibiscus features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro comes with a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This difference in weight means that while the Hibiscus allows for quicker, less strenuous keystrokes, the Matcha Green Pro provides a firmer push that some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, users looking for a lighter touch would gravitate towards the Hibiscus, while those who enjoy a stronger feel might prefer the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
Travel distance
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch features 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. This makes the Hibiscus the shorter option between the two, catering to users who prefer a quicker response time typically favored by gamers. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke depth, offering a more gradual experience. Ultimately, while both switches operate effectively, choosing the Hibiscus could enhance responsiveness, whereas the V3 Matcha Green Pro might suit those seeking an immersive typing or gaming experience with its deeper action.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Hibiscus switch is characterized by its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making it an engaging choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback when typing. This distinctive auditory profile is enhanced by the ultra-light actuation force, allowing for a lively and expressive keyboard experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro produces resonant clacks, which are sharp and percussive, contributing to a bright and immersive sound. Both switches deliver a clean and engaging audio experience, although the Hibiscus offers a more pronounced clackiness while the Matcha Green Pro leans towards a resonant and sharp tone. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound can vary based on keyboard construction and keycap choice.
Regarding feel, the HMX Hibiscus delivers an unparalleled smoothness that enthusiasts often rave about, providing a nearly frictionless typing experience akin to gliding over the keys. This exceptional smoothness is elevated by the light actuation force, allowing for an effortless keypress. Conversely, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches offer a solid and bouncy feel, bringing a spring-like rebound that is both responsive and satisfying. The Matcha Green Pro is also described as creamy, polished, and silky, enhancing the typing experience with smooth transitions and reduced friction. While the Hibiscus focuses on sheer smoothness, the Matcha Green Pro balances that with its bouncy responsiveness and luxurious feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches cater to different preferences while still aiming for an enjoyable typing experience. The Hibiscus is ideal for those seeking a crisp and clacky auditory experience combined with an ultra-smooth tactile sensation, while the Matcha Green Pro appeals to users who appreciate a more substantial, bouncy feel with a tactile finish. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize sound sharpness or a more polished, responsive feel while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you lean towards a lighter typing experience with a satisfying clacky, poppy sound, the Hibiscus switch is an excellent option. It is particularly suitable for those who enjoy fast-paced typing and gaming, thanks to its ultra-light actuation force of 48 grams and exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-bottoming out force of 63 grams, the V3 Matcha Green Pro will likely appeal to you. Its bouncy and creamy sensations provide a satisfying tactile feedback that will resonate well with both typists and gamers who appreciate a responsive keystroke. The sharper, resonant clacks of the Matcha Green Pro enhance the auditory experience, making it a great choice if sound is an important factor for you. Ultimately, whether you choose the Hibiscus or Matcha Green Pro, both switches will elevate your mechanical keyboard experience, but your preference for lighter versus medium actuation force and the desired sound profile will guide your decision.
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