KTT Matcha vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Matcha and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The KTT Matcha is a tactile switch known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, producing a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is a linear switch designed specifically for gamers, offering smooth keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, light actuation force, and shortened travel distance for enhanced speed. While the Matcha is appreciated for its tactile feedback and distinct sound, the V3 Silver Pro excels in providing effortless keystrokes and quick response times. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your typing or gaming needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Akko V3 Silver Pro are quite similar in terms of their top housing being made of polycarbonate. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if RGB lighting is a feature you want to incorporate into your keyboard setup. This material enhances the overall aesthetics of the switches and contributes to a more resonant sound profile when in use.
However, where these two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of its top housing. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a different typing experience. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha.
When comparing the overall typing experience between the KTT Matcha and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, the choice of housing materials significantly impacts how each switch feels and sounds. While the top housing is responsible for the sound when you release a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The Matcha's use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings creates a consistent and sharp sound profile throughout typing sessions. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provides a mix of sharp and deep sounds, offering a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 40 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams, making them equally light. The actuation force is the amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press a key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter feel, either of these switches would be a good choice for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they might want to consider options with heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, both the Matcha and the V3 Silver Pro offer a light and comfortable typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In comparison, the Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance than the V3 Silver Pro. The 4 mm travel distance of the Matcha is considered more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro is shorter and may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prefer a longer or shorter travel distance for your typing or gaming needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 KTT Matcha switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing users with a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers a high-pitched sound, perfect for those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound when typing. Both switches have unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can choose the one that aligns with their auditory preferences and typing style.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha switch is described as having a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle tactile feel. These characteristics combine to offer users a tactile typing experience that is responsive, comfortable, and suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is known for its easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky linear feel. This results in a smooth and buttery typing experience that enhances typing efficiency and reduces finger fatigue. Both switches provide distinct tactile and linear typing experiences, allowing users to select the one that best suits their typing preferences.
Overall, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a clacky and snappy tactile typing experience or a high-pitched and smooth linear typing experience, both switches provide a range of characteristics to enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, users can experiment with both switches to determine which one aligns best with their personal preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a comfortable, snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha would be a great choice for general typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prioritize light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and an effortless keystroke for gaming or situations where speed is crucial, the V3 Silver Pro would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and requirements.
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