Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Mini i offer distinct typing experiences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is a linear switch, known for its smooth and substantial feel, resulting in a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch, offering gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, ideal for long hours of comfortable typing in a professional setting. While the Matcha Green Pro appeals to those who appreciate a solid, responsive keystroke, the Mini i strikes a balance between tactile feedback and a quiet 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Mini i, one can see a clear distinction in the materials used. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of the sound and feel that each material provides.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches opt for nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. This means that when typing on either the V3 Matcha Green Pro or the Gateron Mini i, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound compared to switches with harder bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience and plays a crucial role in the sound produced by these switches.
It is interesting to note that while the top and bottom housings of each switch may differ in material, they both serve important roles in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate of the V3 Matcha Green Pro or the softer nylon of the Gateron Mini i, each housing material brings its own unique characteristics to the overall typing experience, catering to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. Some users may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro for a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the lighter Mini i for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Gateron Mini i is the shorter option, offering a quicker response time which may be preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may feel more satisfying for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. 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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, producing sharp and immersive auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments without being too intrusive. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities, with the Matcha Green Pro providing a more pronounced and crisp clack, while the Mini i maintains a more moderate sound level.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is noted for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. This translates to a tactile and smooth keystroke, with keys that rebound and glide effortlessly under the fingers. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped typing feel. These qualities combine to provide a gentle resistance, responsive feedback, and a comfortable typing experience ideal for extended use. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing sensation, with the Matcha Green Pro offering a more refined and luxurious feel, while the Mini i focuses on ease of use and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha Green Pro excels in providing a sharp and resonant sound, along with a bouncy and creamy typing feel that appeals to users seeking a premium experience. On the other hand, the Mini i offers a more neutral sound profile and a versatile typing feel with qualities like easy-to-press and subtle feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences and environments, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience with either option. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when looking for a keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force and a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out with clear tactile feedback, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch would be your top choice. This switch is perfect for typists and gamers who enjoy a solid and responsive keystroke experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more muted sound profile while still maintaining gentle tactility in each keystroke, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a balance between comfort and professionalism, making them ideal for long hours of typing in quiet office settings. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will come down to your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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