PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch known for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound signature and a bouncy sensation due to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Matcha Green Pro switches of the Akko V3 offer a smooth and solid feel with a sharp bottom-out, delivering clear and tactile feedback that is satisfying for typists and gamers. While the Jacaranda leans towards a high-pitched and silky experience, the Matcha Green Pro offers a creamy and polished typing experience. 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
39g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
POM
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may differ in their bottom housing material.
In terms of their bottom housing material, both the Jacaranda and the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate top housings. Despite having different top housings, both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offer a unique typing experience for users. While the polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound profile, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The combination of these materials in each switch results in a balance of sharpness and roundness in sound, creating a dynamic feel while typing. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper one, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, which has a medium actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the Jacaranda has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams in contrast to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's heavier bottom out force of 63 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Jacaranda make it more suitable for those looking for a smoother and less fatiguing typing experience, ideal for prolonged use. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial and tactile typing feel, catering to users who prefer a stronger push while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda. The Jacaranda's 3.5 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice among gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth and may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch both share a clacky and resonant quality. This means that users can expect a sharp and crisp sound profile when typing on either switch, providing an immersive auditory experience. However, the Jacaranda may lean slightly towards a higher-pitched sound compared to the Matcha Green Pro. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda is described as offering a silky typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a bouncy, creamy, and polished feel. This indicates that the Matcha Green Pro switch gives a more lively and elastic feedback, coupled with a smooth and buttery typing sensation. The polished finish of the Matcha Green Pro further enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. Overall, while the Jacaranda focuses on a silky feel, the Matcha Green Pro offers a combination of bouncy, creamy, and polished sensations for users to enjoy.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of both switches, users can expect a slightly higher-pitched and bouncy experience from the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch delivers a mix of bouncy, creamy, and polished tactile feedback coupled with a resonant sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for newcomers looking to explore mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force, a bouncy sensation, and a clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force, a solid bottom-out feel, and a mix of clacky and resonant sounds, then the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch would better suit your needs. Consider these factors carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you.
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