Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer two distinct experiences. The Matcha Green Pro switches provide a smooth and substantial feel, perfect for those who seek a solid and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch option boasts a medium level of tactility, making it a popular choice for those looking for a tactile typing experience with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. While both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for users seeking a more defined typing experience. The transparency of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, especially when used in conjunction with RGB lighting. However, the V3 Matcha Green Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder acoustics compared to the Aflion Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their differing bottom housing materials showcase distinct sound characteristics. The V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which may appeal to users looking for a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile akin to its top housing material. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing sound and feel of a switch, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing experience. While both switches offer the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper, fuller sound profile, whereas the Aflion Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. Whether one prefers a more muted typing experience or a sharper sound profile, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both switches.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. The V3 Matcha Green Pro requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring needs 48 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. This makes the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring the lighter option overall. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for extended typing sessions, while individuals seeking a more robust typing feel might opt for the slightly heavier V3 Matcha Green Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is 3.8mm, which is shorter than the 4mm travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a deeper press with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial key feel. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different user preferences. If you prefer a faster response time, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the way to go, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is the better option for those who enjoy a more pronounced key press.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 profile, offering a sharp and percussive sound with a higher-pitched and clean auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is said to have a deep and thocky sound profile, which can provide a satisfyingly different auditory feedback compared to the Matcha Green Pro. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience, depending on personal preference and setup.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is often described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and substantial feel with a lively rebound sensation and reduced friction during key travel. Meanwhile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is mainly characterized as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback that can make keystrokes feel responsive and engaging. While both switches offer a bouncy sensation, the Matcha Green Pro includes additional descriptors like creamy, polished, and silky, suggesting a potentially smoother and more refined typing experience compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch each bring their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha Green Pro offers a clacky and resonant sound with a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, appealing to those who appreciate a solid and responsive keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile along with a bouncy feel, creating a tactile feedback that may suit individuals looking for a medium level of tactility. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, take into account the differences in bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter switch with approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound, so consider what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch when making your selection.
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