Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Silent Ink Black stand out for their unique features. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is praised for its smooth and substantial feel, offering a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is perfect for environments where quiet typing is a must, providing a cushiony bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. While the Matcha Green Pro appeals to those who enjoy a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Silent Ink Black caters to users seeking a silky and muted key press. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Despite their differences, both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience that cater to different preferences. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material, while the Silent Ink Black's INK blend bottom housing contributes to a similar high-pitched sound profile.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes apparent how the qualities of each material play a crucial role. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balanced combination of characteristics to be felt during typing. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This balance between the different housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and adds to the uniqueness of each switch.
While the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Silent Ink Black may have different housing materials, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether it be the sharper and resonant sound profile of the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing or the clacky and high-pitched sound of the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing, both switches offer distinct auditory feedback that caters to different preferences. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black contribute to a fuller sound experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, which has an actuation force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. When it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Matcha Green Pro requires 63 grams, while the Silent Ink Black needs 70 grams, making the Silent Ink Black the heavier option in this aspect as well. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, users may choose the V3 Matcha Green Pro for a lighter typing experience ideal for longer use, or opt for the Silent Ink Black for a more substantial feel that some may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired level of keypress feedback.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may appreciate the faster response time that comes with a shorter travel distance, while others may prefer the more gradual feel of the Silent Ink Black switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience that some users may find satisfying. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a muted sound, ideal for quieter environments where minimal audio feedback is preferred. In terms of feel, both switches are described as silky and polished, offering smooth and refined typing experiences with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This means that users can expect a similar level of typing comfort and ease with either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Silent Ink Black will come down to personal preference in sound and the need for a quieter typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider the key factors that best suit your preferences. If you value a moderate bottom out force and enjoy a sharp and tactile typing experience with resonant sound feedback, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you require a quieter typing environment and prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a cushiony feel and minimal audio feedback, the Gateron Silent Ink Black would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer smooth and pleasant typing experiences, but your choice ultimately depends on which specific characteristics align with your typing style and preferences.
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