Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch present two distinct options for users. The Matcha Green Pro switches are lauded for their smooth and substantial feel, offering a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out that provides clear and tactile feedback appreciated by typists and gamers alike. In contrast, the Taro switches provide a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and acute, crisp clacks. The Matcha Green Pro switches are categorized as bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky, while the Taro switches fall under the categories of neutral, buttery, and stepped. When choosing between the two, the Matcha Green Pro appeals to those who prefer a solid and responsive keystroke, while the Taro offers a comfortable typing experience with tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper into specific features so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Jwick Taro, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of this relatively stiffer plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by each keystroke. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design of the keyboards. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when typing on either the V3 Matcha Green Pro or the Taro.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both keyboards feature nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. This choice of material for the bottom housing of the keyboards adds a tactile element to the typing process, providing users with a satisfying feel and sound with each keystroke. As a result, the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Jwick Taro offer a consistent typing experience that prioritizes sound quality and tactile feedback.
Although both keyboards share similarities in their choice of housing materials, the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Jwick Taro may differ in how these materials impact the overall sound and feel of each keystroke. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for distinct qualities of each material to shine through during typing. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the key, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This nuanced approach to housing materials ensures that users can enjoy a well-rounded typing experience with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, which has a bottom out force of 67 grams. However, both switches have a medium to medium-heavy bottom out force, making them suitable for users who prefer a bit of resistance when typing. The V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, ideal for those who type for extended periods, while the Taro switch offers a more substantial push feel for users seeking a more tactile typing experience.Overall, both switches offer a good balance between actuation force and bottom out force, catering to different preferences in typing pressure.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Matcha Green Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Taro. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Taro to be more abrupt, while others may appreciate the extra depth provided by the Matcha Green Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant nature, providing sharp, crisp, and bright sounds that can be quite percussive. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, with moderate actuation force requirements and sound levels suited for various purposes. Depending on personal preference and other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices, users can expect distinct sound profiles from both switches.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, with spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation that enhances the overall typing feel. Additionally, the polished and silky finish of the switch reduces friction and provides a sleek typing experience. In comparison, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as offering a buttery and stepped keystroke sensation, delivering a smooth, fluid typing experience with two stages of tactile feedback. Users can expect different levels of tactile response and feedback from each switch, catering to individual preferences for typing feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch each offer unique sound and feel characteristics that appeal to different user preferences. While the Matcha Green Pro switch provides a sharp, resonant sound and a bouncy, creamy typing experience, the Taro switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a buttery, stepped keystroke sensation. Depending on whether one prefers a sharper sound or a more subdued typing experience, users can achieve satisfying results with either switch option. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and a solid typing experience for users to enjoy.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a sharp and responsive keystroke with clear tactile feedback, along with a medium bottom out force and resonant clacks, then the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a cozy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, snappy tactility, and crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
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