Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch plays a pivotal role in the overall typing and gaming experience. The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are classified as linear switches, known for their smooth and substantial feel that appeals to users who value a solid, responsive keystroke. They deliver a sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks that provide both gratifying auditory and tactile feedback, making them a popular choice for typists and gamers seeking an engaging experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, a tactile option developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, offer a refined experience with a short, medium-strength bump that provides just enough feedback to enhance keystrokes without being overwhelming. While the Matcha Green Pro is favored for its bouncy and clacky characteristics, ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant typing session, the Cherry MX Purple caters to users who appreciate a more muted yet distinct tactile response. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches present an interesting juxtaposition in terms of their housing materials, particularly in the top housing. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This transparency not only enhances the aesthetic appeal in combination with RGB lighting, but also contributes to a more resonant sound when the key is released. Conversely, the MX Purple RGB adopts a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound more effectively and produces a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon contrasts with the high-pitched clarity of polycarbonate, leading to distinctly different auditory experiences when typing.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a harmonious similarity in sound profiles in that regard. The nylon used in both the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the MX Purple RGB creates a duller, rounder sound, providing a substantial base to their overall audio characteristics. Here, the softer properties of nylon play a critical role in dampening noise, which complements the sharper tone produced by the V3's polycarbonate top and enhances the deeper sound profile of the MX Purple RGB. As such, the two switches exhibit a convergence in auditory experience through their shared bottom housing material while still offering contrasting sounds influenced by the top housing composition.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials between the two switches affect how they sound both when pressed down and released. The distinctive qualities of polycarbonate in the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro lead to a higher-pitched auditory feedback upon releasing a key, while the MX Purple RGB’s nylon top creates a sound that is more rounded and muted. However, since both switches share the same nylon in their bottom housings, the deeper and fuller feel remains consistent when typing on either switch. This shared aspect of their design effectively bridges the overall audio experience, creating a blend of contrasting and harmonious qualities that can cater to different preferences among users.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch exhibit noteworthy differences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has a relatively heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it suitable for users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which is advantageous for those who type for extended periods, as it can reduce finger fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is currently unknown, leaving a gap in the comparison. Overall, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the heavier option, providing a firmer tactile feedback compared to the lighter Cherry MX Purple RGB switch, which may appeal to users looking for easier actuation during longer typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, it's clear that there is a difference. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Akko switch provides a shorter actuation distance, which can appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the Cherry MX switch, with its greater travel distance, may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. Ultimately, these differences cater to varying personal preferences: opt for the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro if you desire a more responsive experience, whereas the Cherry MX Purple could be a better choice for those who favor a more pronounced keypress.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 considering the sound profile of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, users can expect a distinctly clacky and resonant auditory experience. The crisp, bright sounds generated during typing contribute to an engaging and immersive atmosphere, ideal for those who appreciate the percussive feedback of their keystrokes. The high-pitched sound profile, coupled with a clean sharpness, enhances the overall enjoyment of typing and gaming alike. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches do not have a specified sound profile, so it can be inferred that their auditory characteristics may not be as pronounced as those of the Matcha Green Pro switches, though this perception also heavily relies on factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches excel with their bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky textures. The bounce provides a stimulating spring-like feedback that can make for a lively typing experience, while the creamy sensation ensures that fingers glide smoothly across the keys. The polished nature of these switches reduces friction, creating an effortless keystroke, and the silky essence elevates the overall smoothness, making each press feel seamless. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches lack detailed descriptions regarding their tactile feel, leaving some uncertainty. However, since they are designed as tactile switches, they may still offer a satisfying experience but could differ significantly from the luxurious and responsive nature of the Matcha Green Pro switches.
Overall, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches emerge as a strong contender for anyone valuing both sound and feel in their typing experience. With their clacky and resonant sound paired with a wide variety of pleasing tactile sensations, they cater to a broad spectrum of users, from typists to gamers. In contrast, while Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer a reputable tactile experience, they may not provide the same auditory or tactile satisfaction as the Matcha Green Pro switches. If you appreciate a well-rounded sensory experience during your keyboard activities, leaning towards the Matcha Green Pro is likely the more gratifying choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch depends largely on your specific typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a smooth and responsive keystroke that provides a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is an excellent choice. Its clacky and resonant sound, combined with its bouncy and creamy feel, makes it particularly appealing for gamers and typists who appreciate that sharp, crisp feedback during prolonged use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined tactile experience with a distinct but subtle bump for clarity in your keystrokes, the Cherry MX Purple RGB might be the better option. While we lack specific data on its bottom-out force, its reputation for medium-strength tactile feedback makes it suitable for those who want an engaging typing experience without too much resistance. Ultimately, consider your preference for sound and feel, as well as the type of activities you will engage in, to make the best decision tailored to your keyboard needs.
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