Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Matcha Green Pro switches are prized for their smooth and substantial feel, providing a bouncy and clacky typing experience with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixies are revered classics known for their substantial heft and textured typing experience, offering a thocky and low-pitched sound. While the Matcha Green Pro switches offer a creamy and polished feel, the Nixies blend tradition with modern innovation, incorporating updated materials and springs. 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
63.5g
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
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 Cherry Nixie, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material in the bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. However, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie's top housing also utilizes nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as well. While both switches offer a different sound experience due to their top housing material, their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent feel and sound when typing.
The utilization of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a unique sound experience that is sharp and clear, which contrasts with the Cherry Nixie's nylon top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in material choice for the top housing contributes to the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch. On the other hand, both switches share the use of nylon in the bottom housing, which creates a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. Despite the variation in top housing materials, the bottom housing consistency ensures that users will still experience a similar level of typing satisfaction between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry Nixie.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Cherry Nixie plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Cherry Nixie provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in consistent deep and full sound profiles when typing. The differences in top housing material contribute to individual sound preferences, allowing users to choose a switch that best suits their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that there is a difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 63 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie boasts a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. This means that individuals who prefer a stronger push when typing should opt for the Cherry Nixie switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offering a lighter touch and the Cherry Nixie providing a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Nixie switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Matcha Green Pro. The V3 Matcha Green Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it ideal for gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Cherry Nixie provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 switches are known for their clacky and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switches are described as thocky and low-pitched, offering a deep and rich sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard, you can expect a different auditory experience from each switch.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are praised for their bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky sensations, offering a smooth and substantial typing experience with a satisfying rebound and minimal resistance. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switches are noted for their textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed that may appeal to some users seeking a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback and typing experiences, so the choice between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for key feel.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches and the Cherry Nixie linear switches each have their own distinct sound and feel qualities, both options can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preference. Whether you prefer the sharp and clacky sound of the V3 Matcha Green Pro or the deep and thocky sound of the Nixie, or if you enjoy the bouncy and smooth feel of the V3 Matcha Green Pro or the textured feel of the Nixie, you can achieve similar typing results with both switches, tailored to your specific preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a clacky and resonant sound profile, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and favor a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry Nixie might be more to your liking. Additionally, if you enjoy a bouncy, creamy, polished, or silky typing feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a range of options to suit your preferences. Conversely, if you prefer a textured typing experience, the Nixie may be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preferences for feel and sound.
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