Huano Acacia vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal linear mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° each offer unique advantages tailored for different user preferences. The Huano Acacia is lauded for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, resulting in a satisfying typing experience right from the start. This makes it an excellent choice for typists seeking a responsive and pleasant feel while maintaining a balance between control and comfort. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° sets itself apart with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which not only enhances smoothness and stability but also significantly dampens sound, perfect for those who prioritize a quieter workspace. While both switches cater to the linear preference, one may be drawn to the Acacia for its tactile reliability or the Zero Degree 0° for its whisper-quiet operation. However, 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

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$3.39 per 10

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Acacia and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it becomes evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This shared material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, attributed to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness. This commonality suggests that users can expect similar acoustical experiences when typing, particularly if visual aesthetics are a priority, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visibility of RGB lighting. Given that both switches employ this material for the top housing, enthusiasts can appreciate a consistent sound quality characteristic of polycarbonate across both models.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the Huano Acacia and Gateron Zero Degree 0° diverges, with both featuring nylon. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This difference in bottom housing material significantly alters the overall typing sound and feel. While the tops provide bright, resonant sounds, the nylon bottoms soften the sound profile, introducing a rounder and more muted tone. Therefore, while the top housing contributes to the top-out sound—reflecting brightness and clarity—the bottom housing plays a pivotal role in shaping the bottom-out sound, resulting in a well-rounded auditory experience for the user.

Despite their differences, the synergy of materials in both switches results in distinct yet complementary sound profiles. Since both the Huano Acacia and Gateron Zero Degree 0° utilize polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, they achieve a balance between sharpness and depth, providing a full auditory experience. For typists who value tactile feedback, this combination across both models ensures that the typing experience remains consistent in terms of acoustics. Thus, users can effectively compare the two switches, knowing that while fundamental characteristics may vary, the overall sound experience benefits from the well-chosen materials present in each.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of effort to trigger a keystroke. This similarity makes both switches suitable for users who prefer lighter switches, as it allows for easier typing over extended sessions—ideal for work or long gaming periods. However, the Acacia specifies a bottom out force of 55 grams, suggesting that it provides a firmer feel when fully pressed down, which some users may appreciate for enhanced tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° lacks a defined bottom out force, leaving it unknown. Until this information is clarified, it's possible that it may not offer as substantial a feel at the bottom of the stroke as the Acacia. Overall, while both switches share the same actuation force, the Acacia's heavier bottom out force gives it a more pronounced feedback, making it the heavier option when full travel is considered.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we find notable differences. The Acacia has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° measures at 3.6 mm, making the Acacia the shorter option by 0.1 mm. This slight difference indicates that the Acacia may provide a more responsive feel, which is often preferred by gamers who require quick response times. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who favor a more tactile and pronounced key press. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for responsiveness versus depth in your typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch is characterized by a relatively quiet operation, making it suitable for environments where noise might be a concern. Although it provides a satisfying acoustic feedback during interaction, it doesn’t produce any excessive noise, which is beneficial for a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch takes silent typing to another level with its innovative self-padding design. This feature effectively absorbs sound, resulting in an exceptionally quiet keystroke. The dual-rail structure contributes to minimizing any inherent noise, positioning it as an excellent choice for silent environments or shared spaces.

When it comes to feel, the Acacia switch offers a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance, catering to users who prefer a lighter touch without compromising on tactile feedback. Its generous factory lubrication enhances the smoothness of the keypress, further minimizing stem wobble and providing a solid typing experience right from the outset. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° promises a distinctly soft, elastic feel due to its advanced cushioning mechanism. This not only enhances the smoothness of each keystroke but also adds a unique squishiness that might appeal to users looking for comfort during prolonged typing bouts.

Considering all these factors, both the Huano Acacia and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference. If you desire a quiet but slightly more tactile experience, the Acacia is an excellent choice with its balanced actuation and smooth performance. Alternatively, if you're seeking the quietest option imaginable alongside a plush typing feel, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch serves that purpose exceptionally well. Each switch brings unique qualities to the table, ensuring that users can find a suitable option based on their typing needs and environments.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you prefer a switch that feels light and lively, delivering a great typing experience straight out of the box with minimal wobble and well-balanced resistance, then the Acacia is an excellent choice for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams makes it quite versatile, allowing for comfortable typing over extended periods without too much fatigue. On the other hand, if you prioritize a whisper-quiet operation and an ultra-smooth feel, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is likely more suited to your needs. Its self-padding design and dual-rail structure excel in providing a plush typing experience with noticeably reduced sound levels, which can enhance your enjoyment in quieter environments or shared spaces. Therefore, consider what aspects of typing comfort—be it the tactile response and resistance of the Acacia or the silky silence of the Zero Degree 0°—are most important to you, and choose accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Acacia Linear

$3.39 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

Learn more