Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a wide array of options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Blue, showcase different characteristics that cater to varying preferences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch, is best known for its smooth and substantial feel, creating a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out with clear and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, offers a different typing experience with a distinctive click sound with each keystroke. While the Matcha Green Pro appeals to those who appreciate a solid and responsive keystroke, the Blue switch provides an auditory delight for typists and gamers. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Blue switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. This similarity in housing material ensures that both switches will deliver a consistent auditory experience, with a focus on clarity and sharpness in sound production.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Blue switches differ. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material. On the other hand, the Blue switch also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of this material in influencing the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switch.
The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Blue switches showcases how the qualities of each material impact the sound and feel of the switches. While the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. This unique blend of housing materials allows each switch to offer a distinct typing experience, catering to individual preferences for sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the V3 Matcha Green Pro is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, requiring 55 grams compared to the Blue's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro is also higher at 63 grams, while the bottom out force of the Blue is unknown. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a medium actuation and bottom out force, while the Blue's force remains a mystery. When considering weight, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, while the Blue switch remains a bit of an unknown in this aspect. Ultimately, the weight of a switch can greatly impact the typing experience, with some users favoring lighter switches for prolonged use and others preferring heavier switches for added tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the V3 Matcha Green Pro requires slightly less movement to actuate compared to the Outemu Blue. Gamers may appreciate the faster response time provided by the shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Outemu Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and actuation speed.
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 Blue 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 signature, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have specific sound descriptors available. When it comes to the feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing sensation, giving users a resilient and smooth keystroke experience. In comparison, the Outemu Blue switch's feel is unknown. Overall, if you enjoy a switch with a clacky and resonant sound profile, as well as a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch would be a fantastic option for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch or the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and substantial keystroke with clear tactile feedback and resonant clacks, then the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and sharp typing experience without a defined bottom out force, the Outemu Blue switch might be more suitable for your needs. Be sure to consider factors such as sound and feel described earlier to make an informed decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities, so choosing the one that aligns with your preferences will enhance your typing experience.