Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Matcha Green Pro switches are beloved for their smooth and substantial feel, resulting in a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out with clear and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cream switches provide a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. While the Matcha Green Pro offers a bouncy and clacky feel, the Cream switches are described as buttery and low-pitched. 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
70g
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
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 Cream, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the NovelKeys Cream utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles as well. The V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream contributes to the switch's pleasing and unique sound, offering a deeper and more muted tone overall. While the materials differ between the two switches, both bottom housings enhance the typing experience by providing a distinct sound profile that complements the top housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Those looking for a sharper, higher-pitched sound may prefer the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro, paired with the deeper sound profile of its nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more muted and unique sound may opt for the POM top and bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, the actuation force is the same for both at 55 grams. However, the bottom out force differs, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro requiring 63 grams and the NovelKeys Cream requiring 70 grams. This makes the V3 Matcha Green Pro the lighter option when it comes to bottoming out, while the NovelKeys Cream is the heavier one. The lighter actuation force of 55 grams is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of 70 grams on the NovelKeys Cream provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, users can expect a similar actuation force performance from both switches, but the bottom out force will result in slightly different typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the NovelKeys Cream. Gamers looking for a faster keystroke may prefer the V3 Matcha Green Pro, while those who appreciate a more deliberate and pronounced key press may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Cream 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 Cream 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 qualities, providing a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched and clean profile. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound, with a deeper tone that is still clean and sharp. Both switches provide an immersive auditory experience, with slight differences in the pitch and depth of the sound produced.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is characterized by its bouncy and creamy sensations, offering a spring-like feedback with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The keys feel polished and silky, providing a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, it is noted to be invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Akko switch provides a sharper and bouncier typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh switch offers a deeper and buttery feel with a low-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for sound and feel, as they both deliver satisfying and responsive keystrokes that will enhance your typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a sharp and resonant typing experience with a bouncy and polished feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a deep sound profile and a buttery, textured feel, then the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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