Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry mechanical keyboard switches, one must consider their distinct characteristics. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth and substantial feel, catering to those who enjoy a solid and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a sharp tactile bump, appealing to individuals who prefer a more distinct typing feel. While the Matcha Green Pro provides a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out with resonant clacks, the Blueberry switch delivers a lower-than-average sound frequency, creating a unique 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, we see that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their materials. The V3 Matcha Green Pro uses a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound, perfect for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer their own distinctive sound qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be more suitable for those who prefer a crisper typing experience, while the POM top housing of the Blueberry switches may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper and softer sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the V3 Matcha Green Pro features a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. This creates a duller and rounder sound, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Similarly, the NovelKeys Blueberry also utilizes a POM bottom housing, which offers a similar deep and muted sound profile. Both switches provide a unique sound experience, with the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry switches catering to those who prefer a more subdued typing sound.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry differ, they both offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials create a well-rounded typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when letting go of a key. Whether you prefer the sharper, higher-pitched sound of the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro or the deeper, more muted sound of the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Blueberry, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Blueberry's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Matcha Green Pro requires 63 grams, while the Blueberry is heavier at 80 grams. The V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a medium feel, making it a good option for those who prefer a balance between light and heavy switches. On the other hand, the Blueberry offers a heavier typing experience, which may be appealing to users who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is ideal for those looking for a more responsive key press, as it has a shorter travel distance, great for gamers who need fast response times. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more satisfying depth to the key press for those who prefer a more deliberate feel. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro being the shorter option and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry being the longer option, catering to different needs and preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a lower-pitched sound frequency, slightly deeper than average but not "thocky," paired with a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp. Both switches deliver a unique sound experience, catering to different preferences based on the desired sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The keys have a lively feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing comfort. In comparison, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is known for its snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff feel, providing a super responsive typing experience with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. Both switches offer a unique tactile experience, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a clacky and resonant sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry delivers a lower-pitched sound frequency with a snappy and buttery typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find a switch that meets their individual needs and preferences in both sound and feel aspects. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch, depending on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a medium bottom out force, a sharp bottom-out feel, and a resonant and clacky sound profile, then the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, a sharp tactile bump, and a lower-pitched and resonant sound profile, then the NovelKeys Blueberry switch might be more suited to your typing needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you are looking for before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches boils down to what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you as a user.
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