Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Matcha Green Pro switches offer a smooth and substantial feel with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, ideal for those who prefer a solid and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switches feature a big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating tactile typing experience that is accompanied by a snappy sound profile. While the Matcha Green Pro is categorized as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, silky, the Polaris Purple is labeled as neutral, mild, polished. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and advantages, however, let's delve 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more translucent design, making it ideal for RGB lighting setups. However, the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature compared to polycarbonate. This creates a more rounded and duller sound when typing on the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues the trend of a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the keyboard. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound experience. While both keyboards share the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, the Polaris Purple lacks the nylon bottom housing found in the V3 Matcha Green Pro. This results in a consistent sound profile across the entire keyboard, rather than the differentiated sound experience offered by the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a keyboard can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. The use of different materials, such as polycarbonate and nylon, can create varying levels of sharpness, pitch, and resonance in the sound produced by each key press. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with a polycarbonate housing, like the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, or a fuller sound with a nylon housing, like the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you seek.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Matcha Green Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force at 55 grams, while the Polaris Purple has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it slightly lighter in this aspect compared to the Polaris Purple. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, providing users with a decent amount of feedback while typing. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the V3 Matcha Green Pro, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while individuals seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the Polaris Purple for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Polaris Purple's 4 mm. This means that the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly quicker response time when pressed compared to the Polaris Purple. Gamers, who often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, may find the V3 Matcha Green Pro more suitable for their needs. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple. Overall, both switches offer different travel distances that cater to different preferences, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro being the shorter of the two.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate and versatile typing experience suitable for various uses. When it comes to feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a range of smooth and responsive sensations. In comparison, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and sleek typing experience.
Overall, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a more tactile and resonant sound with a variety of smooth and bouncy feel options, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile and a more gentle typing experience. Depending on personal preference, typists and gamers can choose between the sharp and substantial feel of the Matcha Green Pro or the exhilarating tactile bump of the Polaris Purple. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles, so users can expect an enjoyable keyboarding experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a smooth and substantial keystroke with satisfying feedback, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple could be the better option. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences for a more enjoyable keyboard experience.
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