Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Purple Star stand out as excellent options, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth and substantial feel, delivering a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and tactile feedback that is sure to please typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star, also a linear switch, boasts an all-POM construction that provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. While the Matcha Greens offer a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Purple Stars are characterized by their mild and low-pitched keystrokes. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Purple Star, one key difference is in their top housing. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This variation in sound profile can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the polycarbonate housing offering a more resonant and clear sound, while the POM housing provides a unique and softer typing sound.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches offer contrasting materials. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. Conversely, the Purple Star features a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper sound profile, albeit with a more muted tone. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro may provide a slightly rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Purple Star will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a clear and resonant typing experience, perfect for users who prefer a sharper sound. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Purple Star provides a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to those who enjoy a unique and softer typing experience. Both switches offer distinct qualities in their bottom housing materials, with the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star contributing to their overall sound profiles.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a medium typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the KTT Purple Star more appealing for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro. Both switches have their own strengths and it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Purple Star has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Matcha Green Pro. In terms of preference, gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Purple Star due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Matcha Green Pro more to their liking with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant properties, offering a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a low-pitched sound signature that is bass-heavy and mellow in tone. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the sharp clacks of the Matcha Green Pro or the soothing tones of the Purple Star.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. The keys have a spring-like bounce with a smooth and buttery sensation, providing a refined and sleek typing feel. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience. With gentle resistance and light actuation force, these switches cater to a wider range of users looking for a comfortable and effortless typing feel.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and KTT Purple Star switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a sharp and clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Matcha Green Pro switch may be more suitable for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, the Purple Star switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and typing style to determine which switch would provide the best typing experience for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a sharp, tactile feedback with resonant clacks, the V3 Matcha Green Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Purple Star switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a keyboard switch. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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