Huano Acacia vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Huano Acacia and the Gazzew U4 comes down to personal preference and intended use. The Huano Acacia is a linear switch that is celebrated for its medium-light weight and excellent factory lubrication, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke experience with minimal stem wobble straight out of the box. This makes it an appealing choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a silent tactile switch that stands out for its sharp tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation, providing satisfying feedback without the noisy clacks associated with traditional switches. This makes the U4 ideal for those who appreciate the feeling of a tactile switch but prefer a quieter typing experience, such as in shared workspaces. Both switches have unique attributes that cater to different typing styles, but let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Acacia Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.39 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Huano Acacia and the Gazzew U4 switches present a fascinating contrast, particularly in the nature of their top housings. The Acacia features a polycarbonate top housing known for its stiffness and translucency. This material not only contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile but also enhances the visual experience when RGB lighting is involved, as the transparency allows for vibrant illumination. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 utilizes a proprietary blend often referred to as "boba plastic" for its top housing, which is softer and designed to deliver a rich, deep sound profile. The differing acoustic properties of these materials indicate that users may experience distinct sound characteristics; while the Acacia produces a crisper sound, the Gazzew U4 aims for a warmer tonal quality.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches are equipped with soft plastic materials that enhance the auditory experience of typing. The Acacia’s nylon housing is a traditional choice, providing a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing sound waves effectively. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 also employs its proprietary "boba plastic" for the bottom housing, which similarly aims to deliver a rich sound profile due to its softer nature. Although both switches utilize different materials in their top housings, the shared characteristic of soft and resonant materials in their bottom housings may lead to comparable deep and rich auditory experiences when the switches are bottomed out. This is an important consideration for typists who favor a rounded sound profile in their keystrokes.

In summary, the combination of different top housing materials results in contrasting sound profiles for both switches, while the similarity in bottom housing materials creates a common auditory experience that enhances the perception of typing. Users seeking crisp and clear sounds may gravitate towards the Huano Acacia, whereas those preferring a deeper, more resonant typing experience might favor the Gazzew U4. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for the sound profile of the top housing, but the underlying acoustic qualities of the bottom housing ensure that both are capable of providing satisfying auditory feedback during typing.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to register a keystroke. This similarity can lead to a comparable typing experience, especially during extended sessions, making both switches suitable for users who prefer lighter action for comfort during long periods of use. In terms of bottom out force, however, the two switches differ: the Acacia has a bottom out force of 55 grams, whereas the U4 requires a heftier 62 grams to reach the bottom of the switch. This variance indicates that the U4 provides a more substantial typing experience upon full key press, catering to users who prefer a heavier feel for a more tactile response. Consequently, the Acacia can be considered the lighter switch overall, while the U4 is the heavier option, appealing to different preferences in typing sensations.

Travel distance

The Huano Acacia linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm may seem minimal, but it can influence the feel and responsiveness of the switches. If you prefer a quicker response time, the Acacia's shorter travel distance could be more appealing, as it may allow for faster actuation. Conversely, if you favor a more pronounced depth in your keystrokes, the U4 with its longer travel distance might provide that satisfying feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the balance between responsiveness and key feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch offers a more subdued auditory experience, allowing for a quieter typing environment compared to other mechanical switches. Its design features medium-light weight and generous lubrication, enhancing smoothness and minimizing unwanted noise. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a distinctly muted sound profile, characterized by low-pitched tones that provide a softer auditory feedback. This design helps to create a more pleasant typing experience, particularly in noise-sensitive settings, as it minimizes the characteristic clackiness typically associated with mechanical switches.

In terms of feel, the Acacia switch stands out with its smoothness and minimal stem wobble, making for a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. This linear switch does not have a tactile bump, which may appeal to those who prefer a consistent keypress without interruptions. Conversely, the U4 tactile switch offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump that provides firm feedback with each keystroke. The plush, felt-like sensation upon bottoming out adds a level of comfort, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a pronounced tactile experience when typing.

Overall, while the Huano Acacia linear switch delivers a smooth and quiet typing experience, perfect for those who prefer linear action without tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch excels at providing high feedback intensity with its sharp tactile bump, all while remaining quiet. Depending on your typing preference—whether you lean towards the smoothness of linear switches or the distinct feedback of tactile switches—both options showcase unique qualities that cater to different types of users. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on your personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, but both switches can deliver satisfying results within their respective design philosophies.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and the kind of keyboard experience you desire. If you prioritize a smooth, linear typing experience that offers a medium-light force at 55 grams, the Acacia is an excellent option. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a light touch and appreciate the benefits of generous factory lubrication, which ensures a seamless feel straight out of the box. This can be ideal for fast typists and gamers who require rapid key presses without the distraction of tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more engaging, tactile experience with a noticeable bump at bottom-out, the Gazzew U4 would likely be your better choice. With a slightly heavier actuation force of 62 grams, the U4 provides a sharp tactile bump and a plush, low-pitched sound profile, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke while keeping noise to a minimum. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what aspects of typing or gaming you value most, allowing you to select the switch that best aligns with your preferences and enhances your overall keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Acacia Linear

$3.39 per 10

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Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more