Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch stand out as popular options. The Matcha Green Pro switches are revered for their smooth and substantial feel, offering a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out that provides clear and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switches boast a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue during long sessions. While the Matcha Green Pro switches are characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', the Phalaenopsis switches are described as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, 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
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. Despite these similarities, the V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for a unique typing experience.
The contrasting bottom housings of the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis highlight the impact of different materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on these switches a more satisfying experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, providing a different typing feel for users. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of qualities, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that result in similar sound profiles, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's use of nylon for the bottom housing sets it apart from the KTT Phalaenopsis. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro creates a unique typing experience with its deeper and fuller sound profile, offering users a distinct tactile sensation. In comparison, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, providing a different typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In comparison, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a lighter typing experience. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is better suited for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel, while the Phalaenopsis is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Both switches have their own advantages, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro offering a more substantial typing experience and the Phalaenopsis providing a smoother and lighter typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Phalaenopsis being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the KTT Phalaenopsis with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience with their relatively short travel distances, providing a balance between responsiveness and key press depth.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 percussive typing experience that is sure to be satisfying for users who enjoy a distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, creating a deeper and richer tone that adds a sense of depth and satisfaction to each keystroke. While the Matcha Green Pro leans towards a brighter and crisper sound, the Phalaenopsis delivers a more profound and satisfying auditory experience, catering to different preferences in sound profiles based on personal preference and typing style.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Green Pro is praised for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky tactile feedback. This switch offers a spring-like sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding across the keys effortlessly. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, providing a two-stage tactile feedback that offers a mild and nuanced typing experience. While the Matcha Green Pro focuses on a more lively and polished feel, the Phalaenopsis offers a unique stepped sensation that may appeal to users looking for a subtler tactile experience.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha Green Pro excels in providing a clacky and resonant sound with a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, catering to users who prefer a responsive and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound with a stepped tactile feedback, offering a different tactile sensation that may appeal to users seeking a more nuanced and subtle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider the bottom out force that suits your typing style best. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 63 grams that provides a sharp and satisfying feel with clear feedback, then the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams that offers effortless typing with a discernible tactile bump, then the Phalaenopsis switch is the way to go. Additionally, if you enjoy clacky and resonant sounds during your typing sessions, the V3 Matcha Green Pro will be more appealing to you. However, if you prefer a bassy and thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switch will offer a more immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, your decision should also consider the feel you desire while typing. The V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis offers a stepped feeling with its two-stage tactile feedback. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs.
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