Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and Kailh Sage mechanical keyboard switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Matcha Green Pro switches are linear and provide a smooth and substantial feel, ideal for those who seek a solid and responsive keystroke. In contrast, the Sage switches are clicky and deliver a distinct typing experience with heavy weight and sharp clickiness. While the Matcha Green Pro switches offer a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and tactile feedback, the Sage switches provide a refreshing clickiness. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Kailh Sage feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of this material in the housings enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the overall aesthetic of the keyboard.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Sage utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that some users may prefer for a quieter typing experience. This material choice highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the V3 Matcha Green Pro and Kailh Sage offer unique nuances in sound and feel due to the properties of their respective polycarbonate and nylon housings. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings allow for a balance of impact on both the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the keyboard. Whether prioritizing a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller typing experience, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to individual preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Sage is heavier at 70 grams while the V3 Matcha Green Pro is lighter at 63 grams. This means that the V3 Matcha Green Pro would provide a lighter typing experience overall, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Kailh Sage clicky switch would offer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, catering to users who appreciate a stronger push feel. In the end, selecting between these switches would depend on individual preferences for 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 Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro. This means that the Sage may provide a quicker response time for users who prefer shorter travel distances, such as gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, both switches are relatively close in travel distance, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and tactility.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro is characterized by a clacky and resonant profile, producing sharp and snappy sounds with a higher pitch that can create an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Matcha Green Pro leaning towards a sharp and percussive tone, while the Sage provides a unique crunchiness that adds a tactile element to each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, with keys that provide a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation. The polished and silky finish of these switches ensures reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp, offering pronounced feedback and a strong, crisp tactile bump with each key press. Both switches deliver unique tactile responses, with the Matcha Green Pro focusing on a lively and smooth feel, while the Sage provides a firm actuation force and reactive feedback.
Overall, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha Green Pro excels in providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, appealing to those who prefer a solid and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, the Sage switch stands out for its heavy weight and refreshing clickiness, offering a distinct clicky typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and substantial keystroke with sharp tactile feedback, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy and sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage may better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value the most.
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