Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offer unique experiences catering to different preferences. The Lime switches are renowned for their lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silenced operation, making them ideal for tactile enthusiasts seeking a feather-light typing experience with a hint of tactility. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches provide a smooth and substantial feel, delivering a solid and responsive keystroke with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out for clear and tactile feedback. While the Lime switches are categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Feathery', the Matcha Green Pro switches fall under 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. 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
35g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Lime and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches feature nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material choice can significantly impact the overall sound experience when typing on these switches, providing users with distinct auditory feedback depending on their preference for a duller and rounder sound or a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Outemu Lime and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches utilize nylon, further enhancing the depth and fullness of the sound profile during typing. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housing ensures that users will experience a similar tactile feel and sound when pressing down on the keys of either switch. While the top housing may have a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall typing experience, making the choice of nylon bottom housing a reliable option for those seeking a consistent and satisfying tactile response.
The use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches in the Outemu Lime and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro allows for a nuanced typing experience. While the nylon bottom housing provides a softer and fuller sound profile, the differences in top housing material between the switches offer users a choice between a duller and rounder sound profile with nylon or a sharper and crisper sound profile with polycarbonate. This split in housing materials highlights the importance of considering the impact of each component on the overall sound and feel of a switch, enabling users to tailor their typing experience to their personal preferences based on the desired sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch. The Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it light and ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is medium and provides a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While the Lime offers a lighter typing experience, the V3 Matcha Green Pro gives a more tactile and substantial feel with its heavier forces. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for faster response times. The Lime switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a more responsive typing experience, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch's longer travel distance could provide a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Lime tactile switch is praised for its muted profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound that adds a satisfying auditory element to typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Lime providing a more neutral and muted sound, while the Matcha Green Pro offers a sharper and resonant click.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle and light typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. In comparison, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smoother and springier keystroke that enhances typing comfort. Both switches present distinct tactile sensations that contribute to a satisfying typing feel, with the Lime offering a lighter touch and the Matcha Green Pro delivering a more substantial and elastic feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch provide users with unique sound profiles and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Lime switch stands out for its muted sound and light tactility, while the Matcha Green Pro switch impresses with its clacky sound and smooth, bouncy keystrokes. Whether you prefer a quieter, lightweight feel or a sharper, more substantial feedback, both switches offer high-quality performance that will enhance your typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a lightweight and tactile typing experience with a muted sound profile, the Outemu Lime switches would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a smooth and substantial keystroke with a clacky and resonant sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and tactile feel or a solid and responsive typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities, so consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style.
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