Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, a linear switch, is a popular choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking a satisfying auditory experience paired with a smooth tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch, offers a refined sound profile with a sharp tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. While the Cream Yellow Pro is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, the U4Tx is characterized by its bassy, muted, and sharp qualities. Both switches have their unique advantages, but diving deeper into their specific features will ultimately help you make the best decision for your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx, it is clear that both switches prioritize sound profiles in their design. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both housing materials offer unique benefits in terms of sound quality, with polycarbonate providing a more resonant sound and the Gazzew blend offering a deeper tone.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile, but with a different tone compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing. The use of different materials for the bottom housing allows for varying sound experiences when typing on each switch.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx prioritize sound quality in their housing materials, they achieve this through different means. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes polycarbonate for a sharper sound profile in the top housing and nylon for a deeper sound in the bottom housing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend offers a rich and deep sound profile in both the top and bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide an enhanced typing experience through their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, falls in the medium range for both forces. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, also in the medium range. In terms of weight, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is lighter compared to the U4Tx, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use. However, for users who prefer a stronger push feel, the U4Tx may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making either a suitable choice depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the Gazzew U4Tx, while others who prefer a quicker and more responsive feel may opt for the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to different preferences based on individual typing or gaming needs.
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 U4Tx 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches have a refined sound profile, with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet sound when topping out. The U4Tx switches offer a cleaner and more sophisticated sound compared to the Cream Yellow Pro, making them ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This switch provides a low-impact typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a sharp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity with each keypress. This tactile feel ensures a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a pronounced tactile response.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Cream Yellow Pro provides a lively auditory experience with a creamy tactile feel, catering to those who enjoy a poppy sound and easy-to-press switches. In contrast, the U4Tx switches offer a refined sound profile with a sharp tactile bump, appealing to users looking for a sophisticated sound and a distinct tactile feedback. Based on the information provided, it is clear that these switches provide different experiences, and selecting between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a cleaner, refined sound profile with a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, the U4Tx could be a better fit. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Select the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
Mentioned in this article
