Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star Meteor White mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options for different preferences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is known for its smooth and substantial feel, providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out with clear tactile feedback, making it ideal for typists and gamers seeking a responsive keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White offers a subdued and gentle linear switch that is easy to push with a soft sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. While the Matcha Green Pro is characterized by its bouncy and clacky nature, the Meteor White stands out for being neutral and thocky. 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star Meteor White, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite this similarity, the difference lies in the top housing material, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to its stiffness and clear resonant properties. The choice of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing option for those who prioritize aesthetics.
While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the contrasting materials in their top housing contribute to distinct sound profiles. The V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a more clear and resonant sound, with a sharper and higher-pitched tone compared to the Meteor White's nylon top housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the RGB lighting effects, adding a visual dimension to the switch that differs from the Meteor White's more classic appearance. Despite these differences, both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to the nylon bottom housing, showcasing the versatility of this material in creating a comfortable typing experience.
In terms of functionality, the split between the top and bottom housings in each switch results in a balance of sound qualities when typing. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, highlighting the importance of choosing the right housing materials to achieve desired sound profiles. Whether opting for the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the V3 Matcha Green Pro or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the SP-Star Meteor White, users can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. On the other hand, the Meteor White is the lighter option, with an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force, but the V3 Matcha Green Pro requires a slightly stronger push to bottom out compared to the Meteor White. This means that typing on the V3 Matcha Green Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a higher actuation force, while the Meteor White may be more suitable for those who like a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Meteor White being on the slightly longer side. Gamers may prefer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, some users may find the deeper travel distance of the Meteor White to provide a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to 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 White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a clacky and resonant experience, providing sharp, crisp, and immersive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a more subdued and gentle sound profile, described as neutral and thocky, with a soft "thud" or "knock" when pressed. Depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup, the Matcha Green Pro will deliver a more pronounced and resonant typing sound, while the Meteor White will offer a softer and more neutral sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is characterized by its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky tactile sensations. These switches provide a spring-like feedback, smooth and buttery typing experience, refined finish for reduced friction, and exceptionally smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch offers a more mild and polished typing experience, with qualities that fall in a safe and middle-ground zone. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and pleasant typing feel, but the Matcha Green Pro leans towards a more luxurious and refined sensation compared to the Meteor White.
Considering all the available information, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a sharper and more resonant sound profile with bouncy and creamy tactile feedback, the Matcha Green Pro would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and more neutral sound with a mild and polished typing experience, the Meteor White would be a good option. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, and the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 63 grams and enjoy a sharp, clacky sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 57 grams and prefer a softer, thocky sound with a mild and polished feel, the SP-Star Meteor White might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what characteristics matter most to you in a keyboard switch.
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