KTT Lightning vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Lightning and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro mechanical keyboard switches, we encounter two distinct options with their own set of benefits. The Lightning switches are ideal for those seeking a fast and responsive typing experience, making them a popular choice for gamers aiming for quick actions. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches offer a more substantial and tactile feel, catering to individuals who prefer a satisfying key press with clear feedback. Each switch has its own unique sound profile, with the Lightning switches producing a clacky sound, while the Matcha Green Pro switches have a more resonant clack. 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
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, while the top housings are the same, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Lightning's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housing may vary in terms of impact on the sound and feel when typing.
The nylon bottom housing of both the KTT Lightning and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a distinct typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly evident when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing, made of polycarbonate in both keyboards, plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in the overall housing materials between the two keyboards, the use of nylon in the bottom housing adds a similar level of depth and resonance to the typing experience.
In summary, the KTT Lightning and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro share the use of polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. While both keyboards also feature nylon bottom housings that result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings may impact the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing, due to its softer composition, absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound when compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. Despite these differences, users can expect a similar level of depth and resonance in their typing experience from both keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Lightning linear switch to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Lightning is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lightning may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a more substantial typing feel, catering to individuals who enjoy a stronger push. Both switches offer distinct experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, we see that the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The Lightning switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who require fast reflexes. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch provides a deeper key press, which some users may find more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with the Lightning offering a shorter travel distance for quicker actuation, and the V3 Matcha Green Pro providing a longer travel distance for a more substantial key press.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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, both the KTT Lightning and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are described as having a clacky sound profile, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. However, the Lightning switches are also noted to be high-pitched and chirpy, adding a unique acoustic signature to their sound. The Matcha Green Pro switches, on the other hand, are described as resonant, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Lightning switches are described as having a subtle and polished typing experience. They offer a gentle resistance without being feather-light and maintain a light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of the Lightning switches is noted to be non-resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively keys that offer rebound when pressed. They are also noted to have a creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both switches offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The KTT Lightning switches may appeal to those looking for speed and precision, with a slick type feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches cater to those who appreciate a solid and substantial typing experience, with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize speed and a light typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switch may be the better choice for you, especially in scenarios where milliseconds can make a difference. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and substantial typing experience with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to determine what feels best for you based on sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you're looking for.
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