Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch to the Outemu Black linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Matcha Green Pro switches provide a smooth and substantial feel, making them ideal for those who appreciate a solid and responsive keystroke. They offer a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback, creating resonant clacks that both typists and gamers will enjoy. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switches have not gained quite the same level of reputation or notoriety. However, they may appeal to those seeking a more understated and perhaps simpler linear switch experience. While these general pointers can help you get started on choosing the best switch for your needs, diving deeper into the specifics of each switch will ultimately help you make the most informed decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Black both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances resonance and clarity in typing sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Despite both switches sharing this housing material, the overall typing experience may vary based on other factors such as stem and spring design.
On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Outemu Black also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. While the top housing may affect the sound upon key release, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall feel and sound when pressing down on a key.
Although both switches boast similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switch can impact typing feel and sound output differently. The qualities of the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing will have a greater effect on the sound during key release. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience, enthusiasts can better customize their mechanical keyboards to suit their preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Black's heavier actuation force of 65 grams. Similarly, the V3 Matcha Green Pro also has a lighter bottom out force of 63 grams compared to the Black's heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. This means that the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Black provides a more substantial and forceful typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro being the lighter option and the Outemu Black being the heavier option.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, which is shorter compared to the Outemu Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4mm. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch with a slightly longer travel distance may provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preference, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro being the shorter option and the Outemu Black being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and usage needs.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience for users. This adds an enjoyable tactile element to typing or gaming sessions, with each keypress producing a satisfying click. In terms of feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a bouncy and creamy sensation, making typing a smooth and rebound-filled experience. The keys feel polished and silky, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness during use. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound and feel qualities are not provided, making it challenging to directly compare them with the Matcha Green Pro. However, based on the known attributes of the Matcha Green Pro, one can expect a similar level of satisfaction in terms of both sound and feel with the Outemu Black linear switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, providing users with a range of options to choose from based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, a clacky and resonant sound profile, and a bouncy, creamy, polished, or silky typing feel, then the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams and prioritize other factors such as sound and feel, the Outemu Black linear switch might better suit your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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