Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch to the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, you'll find two unique options with distinct characteristics to suit different preferences. The Matcha Green Pro switches offer a smooth and substantial feel, with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out that provides tactile feedback appreciated by typists and gamers. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches provide a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while retaining the hallmark frictionless typing feel of the North Pole lineup. Both switches are categorized as 'Polished' and 'Creamy', offering a high-quality 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron New North Pole V2, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 has a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound.
The differing bottom housing materials of the two switches, nylon for the V3 Matcha Green Pro and polycarbonate for the New North Pole V2, affect the typing experience. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a duller and rounder sound, as the softer material absorbs more sound. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction in housing materials highlights how the choice of material can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Overall, both the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the New North Pole V2 showcase how the use of specific housing materials can influence the sound and feel of a mechanical switch. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in the V3 Matcha Green Pro and polycarbonate for the New North Pole V2 offers unique typing experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile or a sharper and crisper one, the housing materials of these switches cater to different tactile preferences, enhancing the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we find that the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the 50 grams of the New North Pole V2. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro requiring 63 grams and the New North Pole V2 needing 62.5 grams. This makes them both medium-weight switches, providing a balanced typing experience. The slightly higher actuation force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro may give it a slightly firmer feel when pressing the keys, while the New North Pole V2 may feel slightly lighter to the touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for prolonged typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the New North Pole V2. The 3.8 mm travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 offers a bit more depth to the key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances and will provide a satisfying typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to users who have a preference for either shorter or longer travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 lively auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors provided, but based on its design without the rubber dampener, it is likely to offer a crisper typing sound compared to its predecessor. Both switches are expected to produce satisfying sound profiles, with the Matcha Green Pro offering a sharper clack and the New North Pole V2 potentially providing a cleaner typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch boasts a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. With a spring-like feedback, smooth and buttery sensation, refined finish, and exceptionally smooth key travel, users can expect a premium typing feel with these switches. Similarly, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering reduced friction, silky keystrokes, and an effortless typing experience. Both switches emphasize smoothness and comfort, providing users with a luxurious typing experience that minimizes resistance and maximizes typing efficiency.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer high-quality sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Matcha Green Pro is known for its sharp clacks and spring-like bounce, the New North Pole V2 focuses on a crisper typing sound and frictionless key travel. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience for users seeking a satisfying and responsive feel. Whether you prefer the clacky feedback of the Matcha Green Pro or the smoothness of the New North Pole V2, you can expect similar premium results in terms of sound and feel with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the following points. If you value a slightly higher bottom out force at 63 grams and enjoy a keyboard switch that provides a smooth and solid feel with resonant clacks, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lower bottom out force at 62.5 grams and appreciate a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, the Gateron New North Pole V2 could be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Mentioned in this article
