Bsun Kiki Red vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it becomes evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Kiki Reds stand out for their finely-tuned typing experience, featuring a high-pitched and clacky nuance without being excessively loud. With all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, these switches are ideal for enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. On the other hand, the Matcha Green Pro switches offer a smooth and substantial feel, with a sharp bottom-out for clear and tactile feedback that both typists and gamers appreciate. While the Kiki Reds are categorized as clacky, creamy, and easy-to-press, the Matcha Green Pros are described as bouncy, resonant, and silky. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but to make the best choice for your needs, let's delve deeper into their specific characteristics.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, one noticeable difference is the POM top housing of the Kiki Red versus the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro. The POM top housing of the Kiki Red creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
On the other hand, the housing materials of the bottom portion of the switches also differ. The Kiki Red features a POM bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and more muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro elicits a fuller and rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller but more resonant sound compared to POM. This contrast in bottom housing materials adds to the overall sound signature and typing experience of each switch.
While the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences, they both showcase the impact that different materials can have on switch performance. The POM and polycarbonate housings provide unique audio characteristics, with POM offering a deeper sound and polycarbonate producing a crisper sound. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings demonstrate how the choice of material can influence the overall typing feel and sound output of mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the overall user experience and sound profile of a switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming for extended periods. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences, with the Kiki Red catering to those who prefer a lighter touch, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro appeals to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two hinges on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, the Kiki Red offers a slightly quicker keystroke due to its shorter travel distance compared to the Matcha Green Pro. While both switches provide a similar feel in terms of responsiveness, the slight difference in travel distance may influence the preference of individuals who prefer a slightly deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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.
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, both the Bsun Kiki Red and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are described as having a clacky sound profile, producing sharp and snappy tones when pressed. The Kiki Red offers a comfortably high-pitched clack without being excessively loud, while the Matcha Green Pro provides a resonant clack for an immersive auditory experience. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
In terms of feel, the Kiki Red switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance, making it a preferred choice for enthusiasts looking for finesse in performance. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch is characterized by a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, providing a solid and responsive keystroke with a spring-like feedback sensation. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the specific feel being dependent on personal preferences and typing style.
Overall, both the Bsun Kiki Red and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Kiki Red excels in providing a subtle and melodious sound with a smooth typing experience, the Matcha Green Pro delivers a solid and responsive feel with resonant feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. As both switches exhibit similar qualities in certain aspects, users can expect comparable results in terms of performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you appreciate a finely-tuned typing experience with a medium-light weighting, subtle auditory feedback, and smooth actuation, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a solid and responsive keystroke with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback, the V3 Matcha Green Pro could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics in sound and feel, so ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience aligns best with your preferences.
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