Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch, to the SP-Star Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, we can see a clear distinction in their key characteristics. The Matcha Green Pro switches offer a smooth and substantial feel with a sharp bottom-out, providing a satisfyingly tactile feedback that both typists and gamers will appreciate. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches are known for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a softer keystroke experience. While the Matcha Green Pro is bouncy, clacky, and resonant, the Meteor Orange is mild, thocky, and polished. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for either a more solid and responsive keystroke or a gentler and quieter typing experience. 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
57g
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
Nylon
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in terms of their impact on sound profiles and overall typing experience. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate top housing is stiffer, resulting in a more resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller tone. This contrast in materials highlights how housing material can significantly influence the auditory feedback of a switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Meteor Orange use nylon, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon material in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While the bottom housing may not have as much impact on the overall typing feel as the top housing, it plays a crucial role in enhancing the sound experience of the switches. Despite utilizing different top housing materials, the similar choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Meteor Orange deliver a consistent level of sound quality and typing comfort.
It is important to note that the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star Meteor Orange result in unique typing experiences for users. While the Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and resonant sound when typing, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a consistent deep and full sound experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help users make informed decisions about their preferred typing experience based on their individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Meteor Orange has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 57 grams, putting it in the medium-light category. The lighter actuation force of the Meteor Orange may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and comfort during use.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly shorter distance of 3.8 mm, while the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances, with the Meteor Orange being more traditional. Gamers may prefer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter distance, while those who prefer a deeper keypress may lean towards the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key 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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a clacky and resonant typing experience, characterized by sharp and crisp sounds that provide an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch presents a neutral sound profile with a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying "thud" when pressed. While the Matcha Green Pro delivers a more pronounced and percussive sound, the Meteor Orange offers a quieter and softer typing experience, catering to those who prefer a more subtle auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing a spring-like feedback with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The keys have a lively bounce and a silky feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing sensation. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone of typing characteristics. Both switches prioritize a refined and smooth typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha Green Pro provides a more intense and resonant typing experience with sharp clacks, while the Meteor Orange offers a gentler and more neutral sound profile with a thocky sound. In terms of feel, the Matcha Green Pro delivers a bouncy and silky typing sensation, while the Meteor Orange provides a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel, with both switches offering a high-quality typing experience in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch would be a great choice. These switches provide a smooth and substantial feel with clacky and resonant sound profiles, ideal for those who enjoy a responsive keystroke and a pronounced auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a softer tactility, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be more suitable. These switches offer a gentle typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making them versatile for various typing preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a sharper tactile feedback or a more gentle typing sensation.
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