Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that frequently come into consideration are the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gazzew U4T. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is favored by those looking for a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smooth keypresses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that boasts a bassy 'thock' sound profile and sharp tactility with every keystroke. While the Cream Yellow Pro V3 is known for being budget-friendly and providing a creamy tactile feel, the U4Ts are celebrated for their harmonious fusion of thockiness and tactile feedback. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gazzew U4T differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," provides a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may result in a more intense and sharp auditory experience compared to the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T.
On the other hand, the housing materials of the bottom housings in these two switches also exhibit differences in sound profiles. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile, mirroring the characteristics of its top housing. Both switches demonstrate a focus on sound quality through their choice of bottom housing material, with nylon and Gazzew blend offering unique sound profiles that complement their top housing components.
Although the housing materials of the top and bottom housings differ between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gazzew U4T, both switches aim to provide a premium typing experience through their unique material compositions. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing to create distinct sound profiles, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent rich and deep sound experience across the entire switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences in sound and feel, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offering a sharper and crisper sound, while the Gazzew U4T provides a rich and deep typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the U4T's unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the U4T is heavier at 65 grams compared to V3 Cream Yellow Pro's 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balanced typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a heavier bottom out force may opt for the U4T for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the U4T has a longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro falls into the category of a shorter travel distance, which is often favored by gamers for its quick response times. On the other hand, the U4T with its longer travel distance may provide a deeper and more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a more pronounced actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 Yellow Pro linear switch provides a poppy, clacky sound that offers a vibrant auditory experience, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch delivers a bassy 'thock' sound profile that gives a deep and rich sound during key presses. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying auditory experience, but the Cream Yellow Pro leans towards a more clicky sound, whereas the U4T focuses on delivering a bassy thock sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth and low-impact typing experience with a light actuation force. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, offering a distinct and intense feedback with each keypress. The Cream Yellow Pro is geared towards a lighter typing feel and smoother key travel, while the U4T provides a strong and crisp tactile bump for a more pronounced tactility.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow Pro excels in providing a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth typing experience, the U4T stands out with its bassy thock sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a more clicky sound with a lighter typing feel or a bassy thock sound with intense tactility, you can achieve similar results in auditory and tactile satisfaction with either switch, tailored to your specific preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you desire a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth typing experience, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a bassy 'thock' sound paired with a sharp tactile feedback, the U4T would be more suitable for you. Additionally, take into account the slight difference in bottom out force, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro being medium and the U4T being medium-heavy. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal typing style and the overall typing experience you are aiming for.
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