Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gazzew U4T mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with a decision between two distinct typing experiences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch that offers a smooth and responsive typing experience, known for its creamy feel and high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that provides a satisfyingly tactile feedback and a deep bassy 'thock' sound with every key press. While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and a distinct sound profile, the Gazzew U4T is perfect for individuals seeking a combination of tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. However, 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gazzew U4T utilize proprietary plastic blends in their top housing materials. While the V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile, the U4T's Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Both of these materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the polycarbonate providing a clearer and resonant tone and the Gazzew blend offering a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, the V3 Cream Black Pro uses a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer properties that absorb more sound. Similarly, the U4T features its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing for a rich and deep sound profile, also due to its softness. Despite the different materials used in their bottom housings, both switches provide a rounder sound that adds to the typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gazzew U4T will come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing combination, the U4T provides a rich and deep sound profile with its proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housing. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, so users can expect similar satisfying results with either option.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Black Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 55 grams, whereas the U4T does not have a specified actuation force. However, they both have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a more defined actuation force, providing a consistent typing experience, while the U4T may offer a softer feel due to its unspecified actuation force. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the V3 Cream Black Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of both switches for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the U4T provides a deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches have their advantages based on individual preferences, with the V3 Cream Black Pro catering to those who prioritize speed and the U4T catering to those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
The Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched and sharp sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch produces a bassy and thocky sound, providing a deeper and richer tone that resonates with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the sharpness of the Cream Black Pro's sound or the depth of the U4T's thockiness to enhance their typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is noted for its creamy and bouncy sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lively feedback that adds a sense of rebound to each key press. Additionally, the switch's polished finish ensures reduced friction and a sleek typing feel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, providing intense feedback with each key press for a distinct and responsive typing experience. Users can choose between the smoothness and bounciness of the Cream Black Pro or the sharp and defined tactility of the U4T based on their typing preferences.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cream Black Pro excels in providing a high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy typing experience, the U4T stands out with its bassy, thocky sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch, depending on their individual preferences for auditory and tactile sensations during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with high-quality performance and a unique poppy and clacky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice. The smoothness of these switches coupled with their medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams make them ideal for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a bassy 'thock' sound profile and a strong tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. The U4T's sharp tactile bump offers a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response. Ultimately, your decision between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gazzew U4T will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing on your mechanical keyboard.
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