Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Red, also a linear switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Matcha Green Pro switches are well-known for their smooth and substantial feel, making them ideal for those who enjoy a solid and responsive keystroke experience. With a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback, typists and gamers alike will appreciate the gratifying resonant clacks produced by these switches. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red switches offer a different appeal with their unknown characteristics. While the Matcha Green Pro may be favored for its bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky attributes, the Dustproof Red remains a bit of a mystery. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
While both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Red feature polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as well as allowing for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
The contrasting factor between the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Dustproof Red lies in their bottom housing material. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a rounder and duller sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This combination offers a unique typing experience that highlights the different qualities of each housing material. Conversely, the Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing complements the sharp sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a well-balanced typing experience overall.
In terms of impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. With the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Dustproof Red both featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the deep and full sound profile elicited by the softer plastic. However, the top housing will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when a key is released, with the polycarbonate top housing of both switches creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch's 45 grams, making the Dustproof Red the lighter option for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Matcha Green Pro requires 63 grams while the Dustproof Red needs 60 grams, meaning they both have a similar weight when fully pressed down. Both switches fall into the medium force category, providing a balance between a light and heavy typing experience. The actuation force determines the force needed to initiate a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to fully press the key down. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and desired level of resistance.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for quick inputs. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red provides a slightly deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a faster response or a more substantial keypress experience. Both switches offer a different tactile feel and performance, so users should consider their typing style and needs before making a decision.
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 Dustproof Red 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for producing a clacky and resonant sound profile, offering a sharp and percussive noise with a clean and sharp tone that can be quite immersive. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to draw a direct comparison in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is praised for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. These switches provide a spring-like feedback, smooth and buttery keystrokes, refined finish, and exceptional smoothness, respectively, catering to users who enjoy a dynamic and luxurious typing feel. Conversely, the tactile experience of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is unknown, making it challenging to compare directly with the Matcha Green Pro in terms of feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch stands out for its clacky and resonant sound profile paired with a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, offering a satisfying combination of auditory feedback and tactile sensation. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch remain undisclosed, users can expect similar results in sound and feel if aiming for a smooth and responsive keystroke with a sharp bottom-out and a satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 63 grams and enjoy a smooth and substantial keystroke with resonant clacks, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lower bottom out force of 60 grams and prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Red might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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