Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, both of which belong to the linear switch family but offer distinct experiences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro is celebrated for its bouncy and clacky characteristics, providing a substantial feel with a satisfying bottom-out and resonant sound that appeals to both typists and gamers. Its combination of smoothness and clear feedback makes it a fantastic choice for those who seek a solid typing experience with tactile reassurance. On the other hand, the WS Pearl introduces a unique feature with its use of ball-bearings, allowing for an ultra-smooth keystroke that minimizes friction. This results in a distinctive, medium-high pitched sound that elevates the typing experience to something almost ethereal. While both switches cater to different preferences—whether it be the gratifying tactile feedback of the Matcha Green Pro or the surreal smoothness of the WS Pearl—it's important to consider your individual needs and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, a distinct contrast surfaces in their top housing. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This results from the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a clear resonance that is particularly vivid when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In stark contrast, the WS Pearl features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer composition. This material absorbs more sound compared to polystyrene, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience.
While both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, the tonal characteristics at play are considerably deeper and richer in both models. The WS Pearl and V3 Matcha Green Pro share this commonality, as nylon’s inherent properties absorb sound effectively, which contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches with a balance of depth. In this case, typing on both switches will produce a similar sound output on the bottom housing due to this shared material. Thus, regardless of the differing top housing materials used, both switches create a cohesive auditory experience at the bottom-out phase of key presses.
The overall impact of these housing materials means that while the V3 Matcha Green Pro delivers a brighter sound through its polycarbonate top, the WS Pearl provides a mellow tone up top with its nylon housing. Consequently, the final sound profile when typing will be influenced by the respective materials employed. The rigidity of the polycarbonate top and the softer nylon bottom means that the V3 Matcha Green Pro will have more pronounced tactile feedback and a sharper auditory attack, while the WS Pearl will bring a warmer and fuller tone to the fingertips. Ultimately, users will find that while the switches differ in their sound signatures due to the top materials, they both foster a similarly rich typing experience thanks to their nylon bottoms.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, indicating a medium resistance that some users might find satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a significantly lighter actuation force of just 30 grams, with a bottom out force of 58 grams. This lighter actuation makes the WS Pearl more suitable for those who prefer a switch that allows for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. While the bottom out force of the two switches is relatively close, the overall feel will differ greatly, as the Matcha Green Pro provides a heavier push, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer response, whereas the WS Pearl's lighter actuation caters to a more effortless keystroke experience. Therefore, if you favor a light and nimble switch, the WS Pearl is the better option, whereas the V3 Matcha Green Pro will satisfy those seeking a more robust feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, the V3 Matcha Green Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the WS Pearl has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a deeper press, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience during typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS Pearl, with its shorter travel distance, can offer quicker response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed. Therefore, if you prioritize a more immediate feedback from your keystrokes, the WS Pearl would be the better option. However, if you enjoy a fuller key travel that gives a sense of depth, the V3 Matcha Green Pro would suit you better. Overall, each switch offers a different feel based on its travel distance, catering to varying preferences in switch operation.
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 Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches produce a distinctively clacky and resonant auditory experience. When pressed, they emit a sharp, crisp sound that is heightened by the overall design, allowing for an engaging typing atmosphere. This clackiness combines with a resonant tonal quality, creating a higher-pitched sound profile that emphasizes a clean and immersive auditory feedback. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches remain unknown. However, due to various factors influencing sound, such as the keyboard construction and keycap choice, users may experience distinctly different sound profiles even with the same switch type.
When examining the feel of the switches, the V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky characteristics. They offer a lively and responsive keystroke that feels vibrant, providing a joyful typing experience. The combination of these qualities results in a smooth and effortless glide as fingers move across the keys. The WS Pearl linear switches, while their specific feel is unknown, are described to feature ball-bearings which serve to reduce friction. This suggests they may provide an exceptionally smooth keystroke as well, potentially offering a unique tactile sensation that distinguishes them in the linear switch realm.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches bring forth a vibrant and resonant sound along with an engaging feel, the WS Pearl's unique design, featuring ball-bearings, could potentially allow for a smooth typing experience. If you value crispness and a tactile auditory element, the Matcha Green Pro may suit you well. However, if you are intrigued by the innovative construction of the WS Pearl and the promise of a differentiated smooth feel, it could be worth exploring further. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel, and both have their unique appeals.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences in feel and sound. If you value a solid, responsive keystroke with a satisfying auditory feedback, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is likely to be the better choice for you. Its distinctively clacky and resonant sound profile, combined with a bouncy and creamy feel, provides an engaging typing experience that is especially rewarding for both typists and gamers. On the other hand, if you prioritize a uniquely smooth typing experience with minimal friction, the WS Pearl could be your go-to switch. The innovative ball-bearing design allows for an incredibly smooth keystroke, while its medium-high pitched sound signature offers a subtle but pleasant auditory experience. Ultimately, if you relish the energizing feedback and sound of each keystroke, opt for the Matcha Green Pro; however, if you are drawn to a pristine, buttery feel and prefer a quieter, more refined typing experience, the WS Pearl is your best bet.
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