Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing experience, and two standout options are the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy). The V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are renowned for their bouncy and clacky feel, delivering a solid and responsive keystroke that typists and gamers alike will find gratifying. Their unique design culminates in a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, producing resonant clacks that add a delightful auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches provide a super smooth typing experience, thanks to their Ly stems, while still offering a resonant sound profile that many users appreciate. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, with the Matcha Green Pro appealing more to those who enjoy tactile feedback and pronounced sounds, while the Tomcat (Heavy) may suit users seeking a smoother keystroke without sacrificing auditory resonance. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share a prominent similarity in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, which significantly influences sound quality and aesthetics. Both switches benefit from the inherent properties of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This heightened resonance is particularly advantageous for users who appreciate a more refined auditory experience, especially in setups that utilize RGB lighting. The translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual dynamics of RGB effects, making both switches attractive options for gamers and typists who prioritize both sound and aesthetics in their keyboards.
In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which brings an entirely different sound character to the typing experience. Nylon is known for its softer qualities, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile that effectively absorbs noise, generating a rounder auditory response. This difference in material between the top and bottom housings means that while both switches share certain sound characteristics due to their similar top housing, they offer a unique balance of audible qualities thanks to the nylon bottom. The combination allows for an engaging typographic experience that feels distinctively different during key presses and releases.
Ultimately, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) provide users with a harmonious blend of sound profiles due to their complementary housing materials. The polycarbonate top promotes brightness and clarity, while the nylon bottom softens and enriches the acoustic feedback. Because both switches employ the same materials—polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom—they offer comparable results in terms of sound dynamics and typing feel, allowing users to experience a unique yet familiar keyboard performance that balances brightness with a warm undertone. Thus, regardless of the choice between these two models, users can expect a consistent quality of experience that maximizes the strengths of both types of housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch have similar actuation forces, both measuring 55 grams, which indicates a comparable requirement to trigger a keystroke for both switches. However, their bottom out forces reveal a slight distinction: the Matcha Green Pro has a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Tomcat (Heavy) registers at 64 grams. This means that although both switches are deemed medium weight, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a marginally heavier tactile sensation upon pressing down fully. For users who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions, the V3 Matcha Green Pro might be more suitable, as it provides a slightly softer bottoming out experience as well. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel during typing could lean towards the Tomcat (Heavy), which offers a touch more resistance at the bottom. Overall, while both switches share the same actuation force, their bottom out forces provide a nuanced difference that could influence user preference based on typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the V3 Matcha Green Pro the deeper option, offering a more pronounced tactile experience when pressed. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy), with its shorter 3.6 mm travel distance, may provide quicker response times, making it particularly appealing for gamers who favor faster actuation. Ultimately, if you prefer a more substantial key feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro would be the better choice, whereas those looking for a snappier action might opt for the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy).
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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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
The sound profile of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro is characterized by its clacky and resonant qualities. When typing, users can expect a sharp and snappy sound, which is crisp, bright, and percussive, creating an engaging auditory experience. This switch’s higher-pitched, resonant notes further enhance the overall experience, making every keystroke feel alive, especially when paired with the right board and keycaps. On the other hand, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) also delivers a resonant sound profile, the specifics of its sonic characteristics are notably absent, which leaves an element of uncertainty regarding how these features might play out compared to the Matcha Green Pro.
In terms of feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is loaded with desirable qualities—it's bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. This combination allows for an incredibly smooth, responsive typing experience that feels both lively and plush under the fingers. The rebounding nature of the bouncy feel gives a satisfying return upon key release, while the creamy and silky attributes make for an effortless glide across the keycaps. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) lacks specific descriptors regarding its feel, leaving potential users to wonder what sort of tactile feedback and smoothness they might experience with this switch.
Considering the overall information, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch distinctly excels with its pronounced auditory and tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for typists and gamers who value clear responses and satisfying sounds. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)'s attributes lack elaboration, resulting in an incomplete picture of what to expect from a user perspective. Therefore, if sound and feel are crucial to your typing experience, the Matcha Green Pro stands out with its well-defined characteristics, while the Tomcat switch may require further exploration to fully understand its performance attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch versus the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences in both feel and sound. If you prefer a key switch that provides a solid, responsive keystroke with a satisfying clack, the Matcha Green Pro might be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams coupled with its bouncy, creamy, and polished feel makes it excellent for both gaming and typing. You'll appreciate the sharp feedback and positive auditory experience it provides, which can enhance your overall enjoyment while using your keyboard. On the other hand, if you are looking for something that leans towards a heavier touch, the Tomcat (Heavy) could be your pick. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 64 grams, it serves those who prefer a more pronounced actuation with a resonant sound profile, which can contribute to a more immersive typing experience. Both switches promise smoothness, but if you prioritize a heavier feel paired with a distinguished depth in sound, the Tomcat (Heavy) stands out. Ultimately, your choice will reflect your gaming or typing style and what kind of tactile feedback and auditory environment you enjoy.
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