Durock Koala vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch. The Koala switches are favored for their perfect balance of tactile feedback, providing a noticeable bump without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Matcha Green Pro switches offer a smooth and substantial keystroke experience, with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out. While the Koala switches are categorized as polished, low-pitched, and stepped, the Matcha Green Pro switches are described as bouncy, clacky, and creamy. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Koala utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect.
While both switches share similar characteristics in terms of their polycarbonate top housing, the difference in their bottom housing materials allows for a distinction in sound profiles. The Koala's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound experience of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Koala and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro may come down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches offer the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the distinction lies in their nylon bottom housing and how it impacts the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper and more resonant sound profile with the Koala or a deeper and fuller sound profile with the V3 Matcha Green Pro, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Koala has an actuation force of None grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, they both have similar bottom out forces with the Koala at 67 grams and the V3 Matcha Green Pro at 63 grams. The Koala is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro. When it comes to weight preference, the lighter actuation force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Koala provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Koala switch. A 0.2 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. The Koala switch offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience each user is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral profile, offering a mellow and bass-heavy tone that is suitable for most intents and purposes. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is described as clacky and resonant, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched and clean profile. While the Koala provides a more subdued auditory experience, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches offer a crisp and immersive typing sound that can add an extra level of satisfaction to your keystrokes.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch is characterized as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff. This means that users can expect a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming. The stepped design of the Koala provides a two-stage feel, with some pre-travel and post-travel, while the stiffness requires a higher actuation force. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. These switches offer a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to lubricant or specific materials used in their construction. Typing on the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches feels silky smooth, enhancing the overall typing feel and reducing resistance.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more pronounced bump with a low-pitched sound profile and a polished, stepped feel, the Koala may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp bottom-out with a clacky, resonant sound and a bouncy, creamy feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches could be the perfect match. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that will enhance your overall mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you desire a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced bump and a bit of resonance without being overly loud, the Koala switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a smooth and substantial feel, sharp bottom-out, and resonant clacks, then the Matcha Green Pro switches would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a distinct bump or a smooth and responsive linear feel.
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