Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and SP-Star RedBlue mechanical keyboard switches, you are confronted with two distinct options. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a smooth and substantial feel, ideal for individuals who appreciate a solid and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches provide a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. While the Matcha Green Pro switches are characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Resonant', the RedBlue switches are described as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Thocky'. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on your personal typing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing construction. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining that sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the switch.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue provide a unique typing experience based on their housing constructions. The V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a softer and more absorbent typing feel, resulting in a deeper sound profile when compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing. In contrast, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and clearer sound profile, creating a distinct typing experience with each press of a key. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings showcase how each material influences the overall sound and feel of the switch, catering to different preferences for typing enthusiasts.
In conclusion, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound profile, the differences in bottom housing materials impact the overall typing experience. The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, with a softer typing feel that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and clearer sound throughout the switch, providing a distinct typing experience. Whether you prefer a more resonant and dull sound or a crisp and clear sound, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Matcha Green Pro is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, requiring 55 grams compared to the RedBlue's unknown force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the RedBlue is slightly lighter at 57 grams compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 63 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, making them suitable for individuals with varying preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the RedBlue, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches have a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, the slight difference in distance can impact the typing or gaming experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the V3 Matcha Green Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key may lean towards the SP-Star RedBlue with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of typing or gaming experience.
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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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, providing a sharp and clean auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, suitable for those who prefer a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing or gaming experience depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is praised for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky sensations, delivering a smooth and responsive keystroke that is enjoyable for both typists and gamers. Conversely, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentler typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. Each switch provides a distinct tactile feedback that can cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel and overall comfort during extended use.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Matcha Green Pro switch provides a clacky and satisfyingly sharp bottom-out experience, the RedBlue switch offers a low-pitched and more gentle typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and the overall typing or gaming experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when looking to choose between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a solid, responsive keystroke with sharp tactile feedback and resonant clacks, then the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a neutral feel that is gentle and polished, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the type of typing or gaming experience you seek. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your needs.
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