Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g 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 HMX Silent Sakura - 53g present two enticing yet distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Matcha Green Pro is celebrated for its bouncy and clacky nature, delivering a solid and responsive keystroke that typists and gamers will both appreciate, thanks to its satisfyingly sharp bottom-out that offers clear tactile feedback. If you enjoy the auditory satisfaction of resonant clacks while you type, these switches will surely elevate your experience. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g is designed for those who prioritize tranquility in their typing environment. With a whisper-quiet operation and a perfectly balanced 53g bottom-out force, these switches provide a light yet satisfying keystroke, reminiscent of gentle raindrops, making them ideal for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. Each switch has its unique appeal, catering to different preferences and environments. 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
53g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches, we observe a notable contrast in their compositions that significantly influences their sound profiles. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for producing a sharper, crisper sound due to its stiffer nature. This material amplifies the higher frequencies and offers a pronounced auditory experience, particularly effective for those interested in showcasing RGB lighting through a translucent design. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g features a nylon top housing, which is typically softer and absorbs sound more effectively. This leads to a lower-pitched and fuller sound profile, making the typing experience noticeably different in character, emphasizing a muted, round quality that appeals to users seeking a more subdued auditory feedback.
When considering the bottom housings of both switches, a reversal occurs in the materials used. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, which complements its top housing by providing a deeper and fuller sound, essentially softening the overall auditory profile. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g employs a polycarbonate bottom housing that introduces a sharper and more resonant sound to the bottom-out experience. This duality allows the V3 Matcha Green Pro to deliver a slightly brighter output when the key is released, while the Silent Sakura transitions to a more pronounced impact when the key is fully pressed down, demonstrating how the combination of different materials influences the overall feedback provided by each switch.
Despite their contrasting materials, both switch designs can yield comparable results in terms of customization and overall performance. The split housing configurations provide unique sound qualities that can be tailored to individual preferences. Users looking for a responsive typing experience might find the combination of a stiff top and soft bottom in the V3 Matcha Green Pro desirable, whereas those seeking a more muted and full keystroke could lean towards the Silent Sakura’s design. Ultimately, whether opting for the sharper sounds of polycarbonate or the muted tendencies of nylon, users can find satisfaction in both switches through the careful integration of these distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro requires a greater actuation force of 55 grams, making it heavier than the Silent Sakura, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the V3 Matcha Green Pro is 63 grams, while the Silent Sakura's is 53 grams. This means that the Akko switch offers a more substantial push feel, which might appeal to users seeking a robust typing experience, while the Silent Sakura's lighter resistance can enhance comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter switch for prolonged use, the Silent Sakura would be the ideal choice, whereas the V3 Matcha Green Pro accommodates those who favor a firmer touch.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent Sakura has a longer travel distance, offering a more pronounced depth in each keystroke, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the slightly shorter travel distance of the V3 Matcha Green Pro could appeal to gamers or those who enjoy quicker, more responsive key presses. While both switches provide smooth operation, if you're looking for a faster response time, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the better choice. For those who appreciate a deeper feel with each keystroke, the Silent Sakura would be more suitable. Overall, knowing the differences in travel distances can help you choose the switch that aligns with your typing or gaming style preferences.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is characterized by its distinctly clacky and resonant auditory profile. Each keystroke produces a sharp and snappy sound, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive experience that many typists and gamers find satisfying. This switch's higher-pitched sound can create an immersive typing environment, particularly when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch aims for a more subdued auditory experience but specific details about its sound profile are not available. However, given its focus on silent operation, one might expect a significantly quieter keystroke with minimal sound, making it more suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept low.
In terms of feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a plethora of satisfying sensations, including bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky characteristics. This makes for a lively and smooth typing experience, with the spring-like feedback ensuring a delightful rebound with each key press. The combination of these traits results in a highly responsive and refined feel that many users find enjoyable for both typing and gaming. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 53g does not provide specific tactile feedback descriptors, leaving its exact feel somewhat ambiguous. Generally, though, one can infer that the engineering focus is on delivering a light but satisfying keystroke experience, emphasizing comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch distinguishes itself with its bright and resonant sound profile, alongside a generous array of tactile qualities, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy assertive auditory and tactile feedback. The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, while not explicitly detailed in tactile and sound qualities, is designed for a quieter typing experience, catering to users who prioritize sound dampening and a lighter switch action. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can deliver a satisfying experience, though the Matcha Green Pro will stand out for those seeking more auditory engagement. Ultimately, the choice will reflect your personal typing style and environment needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch largely hinges on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. If you crave a more substantial and responsive keystroke with satisfying auditory feedback, especially when gaming or typing for extended periods, the Matcha Green Pro's clackiness and bouncy feel may align perfectly with your needs. Its heavier bottom-out force of 63 grams provides a noticeable tactile experience that sharpens your interaction with each keypress. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter environment, whether for work in shared spaces or late-night gaming sessions, the Silent Sakura's whisper-quiet nature and lighter 53g bottom-out force cater well to those who prefer a smooth yet understated typing experience. The Silent Sakura switches excel at offering satisfying feedback without the intrusive noise level, making them an excellent choice for focused typists. Ultimately, your selection should reflect your typing habits and sound sensitivity, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is both enjoyable and productive.
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