Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HC Studio Roselle both offer unique characteristics worth exploring. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is lauded for its smooth and substantial feel, providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback that appeals to typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle stands out for its incredibly smooth and ethereally wispy sensation, coupled with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature while typing. Both switches bring their own strengths to the table, with the Matcha Green Pro being categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', 'Silky', and the Roselle as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral'. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
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
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HC Studio Roselle switches offer different sound profiles and aesthetics. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Roselle utilizes a POM top housing, producing a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer unique sound characteristics, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housings, the V3 Matcha Green Pro opts for a nylon material, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This results in a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. The Roselle also uses a POM bottom housing, contributing to a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. While both bottom housings enhance the typing experience with their distinct sound qualities, the choice between nylon and POM ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, the qualities each material brings to the overall typing experience are evident. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance of impact on both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and more muted sound of POM, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to various preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that the Roselle is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Roselle, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that the Roselle may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier force required for actuation and bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize faster response times. Gamers may prefer the Roselle for its slightly quicker actuation, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Ultimately, the difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be significant to all users, as both switches offer similar benefits in terms of travel distance.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 provides a clacky and resonant typing experience, offering users a satisfyingly sharp and immersive auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch produces a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, bringing a deeper and richer tone to the typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Matcha Green Pro emphasizing sharpness and clarity, while the Roselle delivers a mellow and bass-heavy sound.
In terms of feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing a range of tactile feedback experiences from elastic and lively to smooth and refined. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch offers a frictionless and mild typing sensation, minimizing resistance and providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a broader audience. Both switches excel in delivering smooth and effortless keystrokes, with the Matcha Green Pro focusing on a variety of sensations from spring-like bounciness to buttery smoothness, while the Roselle offers a consistent and approachable typing feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch present distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Matcha Green Pro emphasizes a sharp and clacky sound with a range of tactile feedback experiences, the Roselle offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a focus on frictionless and mild typing sensations. Whether you prefer a more immersive and lively typing experience or a gentle and approachable one, both switches provide unique qualities that enhance the overall mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the V3 Matcha Green Pro if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a medium feel with a smooth and solid keystroke experience. This switch is known for its satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, appealing to those who appreciate tactile feedback and a responsive typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, opt for the Roselle if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a medium-light feel with an impossibly smooth and wispy sensation when typing. The Roselle offers a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for the key feel, sound profile, and bottom out force that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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