Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the TTC Silent Brown mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find yourself faced with a decision between a linear and tactile switch experience. The Matcha Green Pro switches from Akko are known for their smooth and substantial feel, providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback that appeals to both typists and gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches from TTC offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, along with a muted sound profile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the TTC Silent Brown, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a clear and resonant sound profile, making them ideal choices for those seeking a specific auditory experience.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, allowing for a similar typing experience that elicits a deep and full sound profile. Despite the difference in top housings, both switches provide a unique sound profile that caters to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the V3 Matcha Green Pro and Silent Brown switches offers a dynamic typing experience. While the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel. This split of qualities between the two housing materials allows for a well-rounded typing experience that combines the sharpness of polycarbonate with the depth of nylon. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a fuller sound with a rounder tone, both switches cater to a variety of preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that while the V3 Matcha Green Pro requires more force to initially trigger a keystroke, the Silent Brown requires less force for a tactile response. The weight of a switch is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and fatigue. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Brown for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy feel, providing a balance between typing endurance and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results and typing experiences for users.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 offers a clacky and resonant typing experience, characterized by sharp and percussive sound feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a muted and quieter sound profile, ensuring a more subtle typing experience. If you prefer a more pronounced and immersive auditory feedback, the Matcha Green Pro switch would be the way to go, while the Silent Brown switch is ideal for those seeking a more discreet and subdued typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch provides a bouncy and creamy typing sensation with a polished and silky finish, offering a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. Conversely, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch delivers a buttery and mild typing experience with a polished finish, ensuring a gentle and uniform feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you prefer a more lively and elastic feedback or a softer and more consistent typing sensation, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying feel that caters to different preferences.
Overall, choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a more pronounced and sharp sound with a smoother keystroke, the Matcha Green Pro switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a quieter and gentler typing experience with a buttery feel, the Silent Brown switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and reliability, ensuring a pleasant typing experience no matter which you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you appreciate a solid and responsive keystroke with a sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, the Matcha Green Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, along with a muted sound profile, the Silent Brown could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a bouncy and creamy typing feel or a buttery and mild typing experience, as well as whether you prefer a clacky and resonant sound or a muted sound profile. Choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
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