Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Jupiter Reds provide a smooth and consistent keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, making them ideal for those seeking a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Matcha Green Pro switches offer a solid and responsive feel with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, appealing to typists and gamers who appreciate tactile feedback. While the Jupiter Reds are praised for their softer backlight effects and high-precision molds, the Matcha Greens stand out for their resonant clacks. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro are both made with polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a popular choice for switches designed with lighting effects. While both switches share the same top housing material, they may vary in color and design, offering users a choice in aesthetics.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Jupiter Red is made of nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches allows for a more cushioned feel when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
While both switches share similar housing materials in their top and bottom housings, they both offer unique qualities based on the materials used. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a balance of sound quality and typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, users can expect consistent results in terms of sound profile and typing experience when using either the Gateron Jupiter Red or the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, making them both reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Red is lighter in both aspects. The Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Jupiter Red make it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's slightly heavier forces may provide a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Overall, both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red 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 fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Jupiter Red being slightly longer than the Matcha Green Pro. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Matcha Green Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, whether you choose the Jupiter Red or the Matcha Green Pro, you can expect a similar level of performance in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Jupiter Red switch offers a neutral experience with a moderate sound profile that caters to a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, in various settings. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch produces a clacky and resonant sound that is sharp, bright, and immersive, providing a distinct auditory feedback that is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a crisp typing experience. The sound produced by these switches also depends on factors like the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch provides a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience, characterized by smoothness, reduced friction, and gentle key presses. Conversely, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, providing users with a smooth and buttery typing sensation that includes lively feedback and effortless keystrokes. Both switches offer a refined and enjoyable typing experience that caters to different preferences and needs.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that while they both offer smooth and consistent keystrokes, they differ in terms of sound characteristics and tactile feedback. The Jupiter Red switch provides a neutral sound profile with a medium-heavy actuation, whereas the Matcha Green Pro switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound experience. In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch focuses on providing a polished and mild typing sensation, while the Matcha Green Pro switch offers a bouncy and creamy feel with a satisfying bottom-out. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback during typing or gaming sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium actuation force and a smooth, consistent typing experience, you may want to choose the Gateron Jupiter Red. The Jupiter Red offers a polished and creamy feel with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a sharper bottom-out and a more tactile feedback, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro might be the better choice for you. The Matcha Green Pro provides a bouncy and creamy feel with a clacky and resonant sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a bit more feedback during typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel.
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