Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, both of which are linear switches. The Matcha Green Pro switches are praised for their smooth and substantial feel, delivering a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback that appeals to typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out for its remarkably smooth and creamy feel, thanks to its innovative use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. These switches also offer a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets them apart from the competition. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their materials. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile perfect for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend top housing that provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both offer distinct sound qualities, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing may result in a clearer and resonant sound compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream.
Diving deeper into the bottom housing materials, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This creates a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the high-pitched and clacky sound signature of the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing. The POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream switch not only contributes to a smooth and clacky typing experience but also offers exceptional durability and wear resistance, surpassing Nylon in shock resistance and longevity. These differences in bottom housing materials highlight the varied typing experiences and durability factors between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile, feel, and durability of the switch. While the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, they both aim to provide an enhanced typing experience for users. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro for a sharper sound or the proprietary KTT blend and POK material of the Vanilla Ice Cream for a clacky and durable feel, users can expect distinct typing experiences based on the materials used in these switches.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, classifying it as a light-weight choice. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as they offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces for varying typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers for its faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual user preferences, so choosing the right one will ensure a satisfying typing or gaming 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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 offers a clacky and resonant typing experience, producing sharp and snappy sounds with a higher-pitched profile that immerses the user in each keypress. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch also delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, distinguishing itself with a marbly resonance that gives a unique auditory experience. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring an engaging typing experience for users.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is characterized by a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, offering spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Similarly, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a buttery and creamy keystroke experience, delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation that allows keys to glide with ease. Both switches prioritize smoothness and tactile feedback, making them ideal choices for users who appreciate a refined and polished typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer slightly different sound and feel profiles, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharp and clacky sound of the Matcha Green Pro or the high-pitched marbly resonance of the Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches deliver on quality and performance. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and which sound and feel characteristics align more closely with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-bottom out force switch that provides a smooth and responsive keystroke with a sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, then the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter-bottom out force switch that offers a remarkably smooth and creamy feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch may be the perfect option for your typing and gaming needs. Consider your preference for bottom out force, feel, and sound profile when deciding between these two switches to find the best match for your keyboard preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
