Neo Lavender HE vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the unique characteristics of each option. The Neo Lavender HE presents a compelling choice for those seeking a clean, low sound profile paired with the innovative technology of hall effect switches, making it a standout option for Wooting keyboards. Its minimalist auditory experience can appeal to users who prefer a less disruptive environment. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro is designed for those who crave a more tactile and resonant typing experience. With its smooth actuation and sharp bottom-out, it offers gratifying feedback that typists and gamers can both appreciate, characterized by a distinctly bouncy, clacky sound signature. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference—whether you prioritize quiet efficiency or lively auditory feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style and gaming needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches highlight important differences that influence the overall sound profiles of these switches. The Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer plastic composition. As a result, this switch produces a deeper, fuller sound profile, giving typists a more cushioned auditory experience. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, a material characterized by its rigidity and translucency. This stiffer plastic generates a sharper and more resonant sound, making it ideal for setups that utilize RGB lighting, as the clear housing enhances the light diffusion.
On the other hand, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing. This similarity means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile once the key bottoms out. The softer nylon material absorbs impact and contributes to a rounded auditory experience regardless of the differing top materials. Consequently, the bottom housing's characteristics play a significant role; for both switches, the nylon construction ensures that the sound and feel at the key's bottoming out will share similar depth and richness, providing a unifying auditory experience that softens any harshness produced by the top housing differences.
When actuated, these switches will reveal how their varied housing materials combine to create distinct auditory signatures. The Neo Lavender HE's nylon top housing will ensure that the release sound is muted and plump, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate housing will yield a clearer, more acute sound when the key is released. However, because both employ nylon in their bottom housings, the overall tactile experiences during key presses will exhibit comparable depth and cushioning qualities. This interplay allows typists to appreciate the nuanced auditory identities of both switches while still experiencing a commonality in the sounds produced during the key bottoming out.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch differ significantly in their actuation and bottom out forces, offering distinct typing experiences. The Lavender HE features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions that are easier on the fingers. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a heavier feel that could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push. Thus, the Lavender HE is the lighter switch, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the heavier option. This difference means that the Lavender HE would likely be better suited for individuals seeking comfort during extended use, whereas the V3 Matcha Green Pro may appeal more to those who favor a firmer keypress.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.8 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable tactile response when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, resulting in a consistent typing or gaming experience. Since both switches have the same travel distance, you can achieve similar results in terms of key responsiveness and bottom-out feel.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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
In terms of sound, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch offers a clean, low sound profile, distinguishing itself from traditional mechanical switches. This subdued acoustic quality makes it an excellent choice for environments requiring less auditory distraction. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch produces a distinctly clacky sound. With its crisp, bright, and resonant characteristics, this switch delivers a vibrant auditory experience, particularly rewarding for those who enjoy the auditory feedback that accompanies their keystrokes. The differences in sound reflect each switch's design intent, with the Lavender HE favoring quiet performance and the Matcha Green Pro celebrating a more dynamic, sharp sound.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Lavender HE remains less explicitly defined, limiting our assessment of its tactile qualities. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro shines with its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky sensations. Users can expect a lively experience due to the switch's spring-like feedback and smooth travel, which enhances typing efficiency and enjoyment. The combination of these tactile attributes provides a refined and satisfying keystroke that typists and gamers alike will appreciate.
In conclusion, the Neo Lavender HE and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Lavender HE emphasizes a quieter operation, allowing for a more focused typing environment, the Matcha Green Pro excels in delivering a loud, tactile, and enjoyable feedback experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and the tactile feel of a switch, these two options can help you achieve a typing experience that aligns with your needs. If you value a quieter keyboard, the Lavender HE is your go-to choice, whereas if tactile feedback and sound are paramount, you cannot go wrong with the Matcha Green Pro.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch that offers a lighter touch with a clean, low sound profile, the Lavender HE is a fantastic choice, particularly if you enjoy the unique characteristics of magnetic switches and find yourself leaning towards a quieter typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize gentle feedback and a smooth feel, making it suitable for hours of comfortable typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a more substantial and tactile experience, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a satisfying medium actuation force with a pronounced clack and a bouncy, polished feel. This switch shines for typists and gamers who revel in audible feedback and enjoy a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard, adding an engaging auditory layer to every keystroke. Therefore, consider your sound and feel preferences, along with how you intend to use your keyboard, to make the most informed decision between these two appealing options.
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