Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Matcha stand out as notable options with distinct characteristics. The Lightning Silver V3 is praised for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, offering a smooth typing experience and enhanced RGB illumination with its light diffuser. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is favored for its tactile feedback, providing a comfortable and snappy typing feel, along with a clean bottom-out sound. If you prefer a linear switch with a light and smooth typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the ideal choice. However, if you value tactile feedback and a distinct key feel, the KTT Matcha could be the better option for you. Nevertheless, 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Matcha, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. This means that in terms of sound profile, both switches will deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper typing experience. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for a clear and resonant sound profile, making them ideal choices for those who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the overall look of the switches, particularly when paired with RGB lighting.
While both the Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Matcha feature the same polycarbonate material for their top and bottom housings, the subtle differences in design and construction may lead to variations in typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch often has a more direct impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite sharing the same housing material, the overall typing experience may still vary slightly between the two switches. However, the similarities in housing materials suggest that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound profile and overall performance when using either switch.
Overall, the utilization of polycarbonate in both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Matcha showcases a commitment to delivering a high-quality typing experience. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall satisfaction for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of the transparent material, especially when coupled with RGB lighting, adds a sleek and modern touch to the switches. Whether choosing the Lightning Silver V3 or the KTT Matcha, users can expect a consistent and premium typing experience thanks to the shared housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that the Matcha is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. While both switches offer a smooth keystroke, the Lightning Silver V3 requires more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Matcha. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and whether a lighter or heavier touch is preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that the Lightning Silver V3 has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Matcha has a longer distance of 4 mm. The Lightning Silver V3 provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha offers a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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.
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, both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Matcha switches are described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the Lightning Silver V3 is also high-pitched, providing a crisp and bright sound profile. The sound produced by each switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is characterized as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch is described as stepped, providing a two-stage tactile feel where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the Matcha is noted for being snappy, responsive, and providing a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle.
Overall, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Matcha switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning Silver V3 provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth typing experience, while the KTT Matcha offers a clacky sound along with a stepped tactile feel that is snappy and accented. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, either switch could provide a satisfying experience for the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a smooth and clacky typing experience with a high-pitched sound, then the Lightning Silver V3 linear switch may be the right choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, this switch offers a unique light diffuser feature that enhances RGB illumination. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force of 45 grams and enjoy a tactile switch with a comfortable and snappy tactility, then the KTT Matcha switch is a great option. The Matcha provides a clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more subtle tactile feel. Ultimately, the decision between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Matcha will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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