Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Haimu Orange Sea stand out as excellent linear options, each offering distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is celebrated for its smooth and substantial feel, delivering a solid, responsive keystroke that typists and gamers alike can appreciate. Coupled with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, these switches create an engaging typing experience that is both bouncy and clacky. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switches provide an impeccably smooth typing experience accompanied by a neutral sound signature, making them an attractive choice for those who prefer a quieter, more subtle auditory response. Whether you lean towards the Matcha Green Pro for its tactile feedback and vibrant sound or opt for the Orange Sea for its understated elegance, both options bring their unique charm to the table. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Haimu Orange Sea both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which leads to shared sound characteristics in terms of clarity and resonance. Polycarbonate's stiffer composition allows for a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile, resulting in a more pronounced auditory experience when keys are pressed. As both switches share this material, users can expect similar sound results, especially when it comes to the upper register of keystrokes. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate enables optimal performance when RGB lighting is integrated, highlighting the aesthetic appeal of both models.
When we look at the bottom housing of both switches, the choice of nylon remains constant, resulting in another area of similarity between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Haimu Orange Sea. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively and produces a deeper and fuller audio experience. This material not only contributes to the overall sound profile but also affects the feel during bottom-out, giving users a rounder tactile sensation that is consistent across both models. Therefore, while each switch has unique characteristics due to their distinct aesthetic designs, the nylon bottom housing ensures that both share a sound profile that is rich and enveloping.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and Haimu Orange Sea creates a harmonious balance between sharpness and depth. The shared materials contribute to a coherent sound experience; the polycarbonate enhances clarity when keys are released, while the nylon provides a satisfying thump upon bottoming out. Users can therefore expect similar auditory and tactile feedback from both switches, making them appealing choices for anyone focused on performance as well as aesthetic compatibility with RGB lighting.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium weight switch. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea features a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that typists and gamers might find the Orange Sea more comfortable for extended use due to its lower resistance, making it ideal for long typing sessions and prolonged gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the V3 Matcha Green Pro provide a more substantial and tactile feel that some users prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, for those who enjoy a lighter touch, the Haimu Orange Sea is the better choice, while those seeking a more pronounced feedback in their keystrokes may prefer the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Orange Sea offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Orange Sea switch can provide a slightly quicker response time, making it a preferable choice for gamers who favor shorter distances for enhanced speed. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, providing a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding responsiveness and the desired feel of the 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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 per 10 switches.
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 switches deliver a distinctly clacky and resonant auditory profile. Users will experience a sharp and snappy sound upon each keystroke, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound is further enhanced by a higher-pitched resonance, making the typing experience immersive and engaging. Such a sound signature contributes to the feedback that typists and gamers cherish, creating an auditory pleasure that complements the tactile experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches boast a neutral sound signature, which suggests a quieter, less pronounced experience. While both sound profiles can be affected by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, the Matcha Green's more dynamic sound surely stands out.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Green Pro is characterized as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing an array of sensations that deliver a lively and effortlessly smooth typing experience. Users will appreciate the notable rebound of the keys and the luxurious glide of their fingers across the surface. Each keystroke feels substantial and refined, thanks in part to the quality materials and potential factory lubrication. Conversely, the specific tactile qualities of the Haimu Orange Sea are unknown. However, their focus on smoothness suggests that they will likely provide a more muted yet pleasant experience, although they might not match the dynamic and textured feel of the Matcha Green Pro.
In summary, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches present different auditory and tactile experiences for users. The Matcha Green Pro excels in producing a vibrant and resonant sound, coupled with a rich and responsive feel that many typists and gamers would find appealing. Meanwhile, while the Orange Sea's sound quality leans towards the neutral, their feel remains uncertain. Ultimately, for those who gravitate toward an engaging auditory experience and lively keystrokes, the Matcha Green Pro is a clear standout, while the Orange Sea may appeal to those who prefer a quieter and potentially smoother typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches, consider your personal typing preferences and what you primarily use your keyboard for. If you enjoy a more substantial feel with a medium bottom-out force of 63 grams that delivers a noticeable tactile response, the V3 Matcha Green Pro might be your ideal choice. These switches are perfect for those who appreciate the excitement of sharp, resonant sounds and seek a bouncy, creamy typing experience. They could be particularly advantageous for gamers or typists who prefer an engaging feedback loop during intense typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Haimu Orange Sea switches will cater to your needs with their impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound, making them an excellent option for long typing sessions or tasks demanding sustained performance without fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you value a more robust, auditory typing environment or a smoother, quieter experience conducive to extended use.
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