Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch, is revered for its smooth and substantial feel, providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback that is appealing to both typists and gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, stands out with its infusion of smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. While the Matcha Green Pro offers a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Melodic is described as buttery and invigorating. These general characteristics can help guide your decision on which switch to choose; 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Melodic switches are quite similar, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. While both switches share these qualities in their housing materials, the small variances in the composition and design may lead to slightly different typing experiences.
Although both switches have polycarbonate top housings, the slight differences in their nylon bottom housings may affect the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a potentially duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic's nylon bottom housing may provide a different typing experience by enhancing the deeper and fuller sound due to its own unique characteristics. These distinctions in the bottom housing materials could result in subtle variations in typing feedback and sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Melodic switches may depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, creating a sharp and crisp sound profile. However, the slight differences in their nylon bottom housings may influence the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a deeper and fuller sound profile, understanding how the housing materials interact with each other can help in making an informed decision based on individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we see that the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Melodic, which has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have a similar medium bottom out force, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro at 63 grams and the Melodic at 60 grams. The weight of a switch is essential to consider as it affects typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches might opt for the V3 Matcha Green Pro for extended typing sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Melodic. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Melodic clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for a faster key press. On the other hand, the Melodic clicky switch provides a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether you prioritize speed and agility or a more tactile 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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch are described as resonant, offering a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory experience. However, the Matcha Green Pro is also noted for being clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, while the Melodic is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp leaves. Depending on personal preference, users may find the Matcha Green Pro to provide a more percussive sound, while the Melodic offers a classic clicky sound.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is praised for its bouncy and creamy attributes, providing a lively and smooth typing experience. It is also described as polished and silky, offering reduced friction and a refined typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is known for its buttery and invigorating feel, giving users a seamless and reactive typing experience with pronounced feedback. Users who enjoy a more spring-like and elastic feedback sensation may lean towards the Matcha Green Pro, while those seeking a firm actuation force and snappy feel may prefer the Melodic.
Considering all available information, it is clear that both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha Green Pro excels in providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, appealing to those who appreciate a solid keystroke, while the Melodic stands out for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a classic clicky sound without compromising on smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing sensations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a smooth and substantial feel with a sharp bottom-out and satisfying tactile feedback, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the way to go. Expect clacky and resonant sounds when typing on these switches. On the other hand, if you enjoy a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without compromising on smoothness, opt for the Gateron Melodic. You can anticipate a resonant sound profile with a crunchy feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will come down to your personal typing style and the sensory experience you prefer.
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