Akko Botany vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and the Gazzew U4 offer two distinct yet appealing options for typists and gamers alike. The Akko Botany, classified as a linear switch, is celebrated for its crisp, lively clacky sound, creating an engaging auditory experience right out of the box. It offers a smooth keystroke that many users love for fast-paced typing and gaming, making it a fantastic choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 stands out as a silent tactile switch, providing a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. This switch embraces a more understated sound profile, producing muted, low-pitched, and sharp sounds—perfect for quieter environments or those who prefer subtle feedback. Both options cater to different preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience, giving users a lot to consider. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany switch and the Gazzew U4, one finds similarities and distinctions that impact their auditory and tactile experiences. Both switches utilize nylon in their construction; the Botany features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend, often dubbed "boba plastic," for both its top and bottom housings. The key characteristic shared between the two is their use of relatively softer plastics, which aids in producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared trait allows users of both switches to enjoy a sound experience with pronounced richness, making these switches appealing for those who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing.

Despite the similar sound profiles, the materials do present some nuances. The Botany's nylon top and bottom housings create a consistent sonic signature, contributing to a cohesive tactile experience from top to bottom. In contrast, the Gazzew U4, while also aiming for a deep sound, employs a proprietary blend that might introduce subtle variations in texture or feedback due to differences in material composition. Consequently, while both switches will produce a satisfying bottom-out sound that is rich and resonant, users may experience slight variations in the feel and reaction of the switches due to the unique qualities of the Gazzew plastic compared to traditional nylon.

In practical terms, the housing material characteristics affect the overall typing experience differently. For the Akko Botany, the effects of sound absorption are uniformly distributed throughout the switch, while the Gazzew U4's design might offer a unique interaction due to the specific blend of its materials. Regardless, both switches will create a satisfying auditory experience, with the nylon and the "boba plastic" working to soften impacts and absorb sound securely. Ultimately, this means that while there are differences in material, typing on either the Akko Botany or the Gazzew U4 will yield comparable results in sound and feel for end-users, particularly in terms of a rich sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Botany switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, whereas the U4 requires a heavier force of 45 grams to actuate. This characteristic makes the Botany switch more suitable for prolonged typing sessions, as less effort is needed to register keystrokes. In terms of bottom out force, the Botany switch again proves to be lighter at 45 grams compared to the U4's 62 grams. This means that while the U4 provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer feedback with each keystroke, it may lead to greater fatigue during long use. Overall, the Akko Botany linear switch is the lighter option, making it ideal for users seeking comfort during extended use, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a heavier feel for those who appreciate a more substantial push.

Travel distance

The Akko Botany linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that both switches will provide a similar keypress experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect comparable feedback and performance when using either switch. This consistency in travel distance may appeal to those seeking a uniform typing experience, whether they prefer the smoothness of linear switches or the tactile feel of the Gazzew U4.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Akko Botany linear switch is characterized by a crisp and lively clackiness, creating a bright auditory experience that many users find satisfying. This vibrant sound emerges straight out of the box, making it a fun choice for those who enjoy a more dynamic and expressive typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a considerably different auditory signature. With its muted sound quality, the U4 produces a low-pitched and quieter feedback that minimizes noise, making it ideal for environments where discretion is preferred. The soft and gentle sound emitted from the U4 allows it to blend seamlessly into quiet spaces while still providing a satisfying keystroke experience.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany linear switch excels in smoothness, which typifies linear switches. Users will appreciate the uninterrupted glide throughout the keypress, allowing for efficient typing without any tactile feedback interventions. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a completely different tactile profile with its sharp tactile bump, providing an invigorating feedback that enhances typing precision. The felt-like bottom-out sensation adds a plush quality that contributes to a uniquely satisfying typing experience, differentiating itself firmly from the smooth action of the Botany.

In summary, the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Botany’s lively and crisp sound, combined with its smooth linear feel, makes it a great choice for users who enjoy an expressive and fluid typing experience. Conversely, the U4's muted auditory feedback paired with its sharp tactile sensation appeals to those who seek a more subdued yet precise keystroke. While both switches provide enjoyable experiences, they distinctly serve different styles, allowing newcomers to choose based on their preferences for auditory and tactile engagement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you favor a light touch, enjoy a lively typing experience, and love the crisp, clacky sounds that accompany each keystroke, the Botany switch is an excellent option for you. Its 45-gram actuation force allows for easy typing and gaming, making it well-suited for environments where expressiveness in sound can be embraced. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued, tactile typing experience with a rich feedback sensation, the Gazzew U4 is your ideal choice. The U4's 62-gram force offers a satisfying resistance paired with a whisper-quiet operation, perfect for noisy settings like offices or shared spaces where noise might be an issue. Additionally, its pronounced tactile bump provides a delightful shock of feedback without the disruptive clack typical of linear switches. Ultimately, consider where, how, and for what purpose you'll be using your mechanical keyboard to decide which switch aligns best with your typing style and sound preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

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Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more