Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Matcha Green Pro switches provide a solid and responsive keystroke with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, making them ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switches offer a deeper sound profile and a silky smoothness paired with a lighter actuation force, appealing to users looking for a quieter and easier-to-press option. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HMX Swift differ in some key aspects. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Swift uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon which absorbs more sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound in both cases. While the top and bottom housings may differ, the qualities of each material are split between the two parts of the switch in both models.
In terms of aesthetics, the V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out for its translucent polycarbonate top housing, making it an ideal choice for those who plan to use RGB lighting. The clear housing of polycarbonate allows the lighting to shine through, adding a unique visual appeal to the switch. In comparison, the HMX Swift's nylon housing may not offer the same level of translucency, but its classic design and deeper sound profile make it a popular choice among users looking for a more traditional typing experience. Both switches offer a variety of options for users to choose from based on their preferences for sound and visual appeal.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HMX Swift play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each switch. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro creates a sharp and resonant sound when keys are released, while the softer nylon bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out. Users who prefer a crisper sound profile may opt for the V3 Matcha Green Pro, while those looking for a more muted and rounder sound may prefer the HMX Swift. Overall, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of different housing materials in their design.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the HMX Swift linear switch, which has an actuation force of 42 grams, making the Matcha Green Pro switch heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Matcha Green Pro requires 63 grams, while the Swift linear switch only needs 50 grams to bottom out, making the Matcha Green Pro switch heavier in this aspect as well. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly more substantial feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. If you prefer a lighter touch, the HMX Swift would be the better option for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining which one is the better choice based on individual preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches. Gamers might prefer the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press might opt for the HMX Swift with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be significant enough to drastically alter the typing experience, and users can expect similar results from both switches.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 described as clacky and resonant, offering a sharp and crisp sound profile with higher-pitched tones that create an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is also categorized as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory feedback, but the Matcha Green Pro may have a slightly brighter and more resonant sound due to its design. Overall, users can expect a pleasing sound experience from both switches, with the choice ultimately depending on personal preference and the surrounding setup.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is known for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky attributes. These qualities translate into a spring-like feedback sensation, a smooth and buttery typing experience, reduced friction, and exceptional smoothness during keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, offering gentle resistance, light actuation force, a spring-like rebound feel, and a silky typing sensation. Both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, but the Matcha Green Pro may offer slightly more bounce and smoothness in keystrokes compared to the Swift. Ultimately, the feel of the switches will cater to individual preferences and typing styles.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the HMX Swift linear switches offer unique sound and feel experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Matcha Green Pro may provide a brighter and more resonant sound profile with a slightly bouncier and smoother typing feel, the Swift offers a deeper sound tone with an easy-to-press and feathery typing sensation. Users can expect satisfying auditory feedback and comfortable keystrokes from both switches, making them suitable choices for typists and gamers seeking a tailored typing experience. In conclusion, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a solid and responsive keystroke with clear tactile feedback, the Matcha Green Pro switches are a great choice. The resonant clacks produced by these switches may enhance your typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a silky smooth feel with a deeper sound profile, the Swift switches with their full nylon housings may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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