Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to compare are the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry MX Black. The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth and substantial feel, providing satisfyingly sharp bottom-outs and clear tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black, another linear switch, offers a classic textured smoothness with a familiar deep sound profile when typing. While the Matcha Green Pro appeals to those who appreciate a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the MX Black is favored for its low-pitched and stiff feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry MX Black switches, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the top housing material differs between the two switches, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Cherry MX Black featuring a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Black elicits a deeper and fuller sound.
While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a unique advantage in terms of aesthetics. Polycarbonate's translucency makes it an ideal material for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for the lighting to shine through more effectively. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black's nylon top housing may not offer the same visual appeal as the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Additionally, the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience, with the stiffer polycarbonate of the V3 Matcha Green Pro contributing to a clear and resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon of the Cherry MX Black creates a duller and rounder sound.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry MX Black switches result in varying sound profiles and aesthetic considerations. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing to create a deeper and fuller sound, the V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out with its polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile, as well as enhanced RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black's nylon top housing provides a classic typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, aesthetics, and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is clear that the Akko V3 has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Cherry MX Black's 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 requires 63 grams while the Cherry MX Black needs 80 grams, making the MX Black switch heavier in this aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Akko V3 may result in a more comfortable typing experience for longer periods of time, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Akko V3 switch offers a slightly shorter distance compared to the MX Black. For those seeking a faster response time, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and deeper keypress may lean towards the Cherry MX Black switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and snappy sound with higher-pitched tones. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference, as both offer distinct auditory experiences that can complement different typing styles and environments.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch stands out for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky attributes, offering a smooth and substantial typing experience with a responsive feedback sensation. In comparison, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is described as textured and stiff, providing noticeable friction and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. Whether you prefer a bouncy and creamy feel or a textured and stiff sensation will depend on your individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
When considering all available information, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch excels in providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant sound, along with a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel that caters to those who appreciate a smooth and substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a classic textured smoothness and a low-pitched sound profile, with a textured and stiff feel that may appeal to users seeking a different tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a smoother and lighter keystroke with a medium bottom out force, then the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Matcha Green Pro switches offer a bouncy and creamy feel, combined with a clacky and resonant sound profile that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier and more textured keystroke experience with a heavy bottom out force, then the Cherry MX Black linear switch is the way to go. The MX Black switches are known for their low-pitched sound and stiff feel, providing a different typing experience compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
Mentioned in this article
