Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and Gateron Type L are two popular choices for mechanical keyboard switches, both offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is renowned for its smooth and substantial feel, providing a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and tactile feedback that appeals to typists and gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," boasts a light touch, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and delivers a sound signature on the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Matcha Green Pro is characterized by its bouncy and clacky nature, the Type L is described as neutral and subdued, offering a feathery and easy-to-press experience. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Type L switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and feel of the switches. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. While both materials have their unique qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Type L offers a more mellow tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gateron Type L switches use nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on either switch, regardless of the brand. However, the housing materials of the bottom components still play a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, whether you choose the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro or the Gateron Type L, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a crisper and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the Type L offers a deeper and fuller tone. Similarly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a softer and more absorbing sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 requires 63 grams of force while the Gateron Type L only needs 45 grams. This means that the Akko switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel both when triggering the keystroke and when bottoming out. In contrast, the Gateron Type L offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a less taxing typing experience. Users looking for a switch that allows for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods may lean towards the Gateron Type L due to its lighter actuation and bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke feel may opt for the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch, which has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the V3 Matcha Green Pro will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L switch may offer a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a longer travel distance when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what type of typing experience you prefer.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that they offer different auditory experiences. The Matcha Green Pro switch produces a clacky and resonant sound profile, delivering sharp and percussive feedback that is particularly satisfying for users seeking a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L switch is characterized by a more neutral and subdued sound, veering towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them would ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch boasts a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, catering to users who enjoy a spring-like feedback sensation and smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the Type L switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal exertion and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches prioritize comfort and responsiveness, but their differences lie in the specific tactile feedback and actuation force required. Users can expect a distinct typing experience based on their preference for a lively bounce or a light, effortless keypress.
Overall, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch each have their unique strengths in sound and feel. While the Matcha Green Pro switch provides a clacky, resonant sound and a bouncy, creamy typing feel, the Type L switch offers a more subdued sound and a feathery, easy-to-press sensation. Depending on whether a user prioritizes sharp feedback or light actuation force, they can choose between these switches to achieve a personalized typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches promise quality performance and can deliver satisfying results for users seeking a reliable and enjoyable mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a smooth, substantial feel with satisfyingly sharp feedback, the V3 Matcha Green Pro may be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky and resonant sound profile, these switches will provide an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a switch that offers a light and easy-to-press feel, the Gateron Type L may be more suitable for your needs. With a neutral sound profile and feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, the Type L offers a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for key feel, sound, and actuation force.
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