Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch, or the Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch. The Matcha Green Pro switches are known for their smooth and substantial feel, delivering a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback that appeals to both typists and gamers. On the other hand, the Red Panda switches offer a light-medium amount of tactility with a unique bottom-out and top-out sound profile that adds an extra dimension to your typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that may 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Red Panda are quite similar in terms of their top housing being made of polycarbonate. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness of the polycarbonate material leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound and aesthetic experience from both switches due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Red Panda differ slightly, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro incorporating a nylon bottom housing while the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Red Panda may contribute to a slightly different sound and feel when compared to the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in the sound and feel of typing. While both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Outemu Red Panda utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material may lead to subtle variations in sound and typing experience. Whether users prefer the sharper, crisper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see that both switches have similar weight profiles with medium actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Red Panda is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming, the Red Panda may be the preferred option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the better choice. Both switches provide a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, ensuring that users can achieve a satisfying typing experience while maintaining comfort and efficiency.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a bit more depth when it comes to key press feeling compared to the Red Panda. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 qualities, producing sharp, snappy sounds with higher-pitched profiles that create an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as thocky, delivering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with a bassier bottom-out and a clackier top-out. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and can be influenced by factors like the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a variety of sensations, including bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feedback, providing a lively, smooth, refined, and exceptionally smooth typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as mild, offering a gentler typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that can enhance typing comfort and performance based on individual preferences.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both deliver on the promise of quality performance and user satisfaction. Whether you prefer a sharp, resonant typing experience with the Matcha Green Pro or a more gentle, thocky feel with the Red Panda, both switches provide reliable and responsive keystrokes for typists and gamers alike. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a smooth and substantial typing experience with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a clacky sound profile or a gentle typing experience with a thocky sound. Consider your typing style and sound preferences to determine which switch would enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
