Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx both present enticing options for tactile enthusiasts, albeit with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump that delivers an engaging typing experience alongside a louder, bass-heavy sound signature that many find exhilarating, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx ingeniously balances auditory and tactile sensations, featuring a deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, complemented by a subtle, whisper-quiet topping out effect. This makes the U4Tx appealing for those seeking a luxurious yet discreet typing experience, characterized by its sharp tactile bump and refined sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer the bold, dynamic feedback of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro or the sophisticated, muted elegance of the U4Tx. 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
30g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx, distinct differences in their top housings stand out. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This rigidity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall auditory experience when typing. The clear nature of polycarbonate also complements RGB lighting well, making it an attractive option for users who prioritize aesthetic appeal alongside performance. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx employs a proprietary plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," for its top housing. This material, being softer than polycarbonate, achieves a more muted sound profile that provides richness and depth, creating a stark contrast in tonal quality between the two switches.
When analyzing the bottom housings, both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Gazzew U4Tx showcase the use of nylon and a proprietary blend of "boba plastic," respectively. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 is recognized as a classic material in the switch industry, offering a deeper and rounder sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound effectively. In comparison, the U4Tx’s bottom housing—which also utilizes the same soft “boba plastic” as its top housing—contributes to a similarly warm sound character. The softer material here is significant, as it ensures both switches deliver a rich auditory experience, albeit through different tonal qualities shaped by their respective top housings.
Ultimately, the interaction between the two contrasting top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in the overall performance of each switch. While the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro combines a sharper sound profile from its polycarbonate top with the roundness of its nylon bottom housing, the Gazzew U4Tx synthesizes softness from both its top and bottom, resulting in a notably deep sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches can achieve similar auditory effects in specific circumstances, particularly during the bottom-out sound, where the impact from the bottom housing is pronounced. Thus, while their material compositions differ significantly, those aiming for a desirable auditory experience can find satisfaction in either switch, albeit through unique feel and tonal variations.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we can see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a relatively light actuation force of 30 grams, coupled with a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its ease of use. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx's actuation force is unspecified, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, suggesting a more substantial tactile experience. This heavier feel might appeal to those who prefer a firmer key press. Consequently, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro could be considered the lighter option, ideal for users seeking less fatigue during prolonged use, while the Gazzew U4Tx would cater to those who appreciate a firmer response in their keystrokes. Overall, while the actuation forces differ, the distinct bottom out forces highlight the different tactile experiences each switch offers.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in length. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it a shallower option that aligns with the trend toward shorter, more responsive switches favored by gamers. In contrast, the U4Tx features a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, offering a more pronounced pressing sensation that some users might find more satisfying. As such, if you prioritize responsiveness for fast-paced gaming, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the more suitable choice. Conversely, if you prefer a deeper feel in your keystrokes, the Gazzew U4Tx would likely provide a more fulfilling experience. Overall, these differences demonstrate the trade-offs between quicker response times and more substantial tactile feedback in keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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
The sound profile of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch is characterized by a notably loud signature with a bass-heavy pitch, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx offers an impressive sound experience that marries deep resonance with quietness. It produces a satisfying "thock" when bottoming out, complemented by a much softer sound during the topping out phase. The U4Tx's refined and cleaner audio profile contrasts with the bolder noise of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, making it a preferable choice for those who favor a more muted typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback.
When it comes to keyboard feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro presents a substantial tactile bump that provides a rewarding feedback sensation with each key press, though specific details on its tactile intensity are less emphasized. The U4Tx, on the other hand, stands out for its distinctly sharp tactile feedback, delivering strong and crisp tactile bumps that offer a pleasurable and luxurious typing experience. This sharpness may lead to a more engaging and responsive sensation compared to the V3 Creamy Purple Pro's more generalized tactile characteristic, ensuring that every keystroke is felt clearly and distinctly.
In summary, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro delivers a bold, bassy auditory experience with a generous tactile bump, perfect for users who appreciate a louder typing environment. Meanwhile, the U4Tx combines deep resonance with a whisper-quiet topping out and a sharp tactile feedback, appealing to those who desire a refined, luxurious typing feel along with a cleaner sound profile. Both switches provide enjoyable experiences, but the choice ultimately depends on whether one prefers a more pronounced auditory output or a subtler, cleaner typing sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a pronounced tactile feedback that creates a more engaging typing experience, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent choice. Its bassy sound profile adds a distinct auditory satisfaction, making it well-suited for those who enjoy a more vibrant and expressive key press. This switch is ideal for casual typing, gaming, or if you simply enjoy the thrill of a louder keystroke.
On the other hand, if you seek a balance of tactile feedback with a quieter and more refined sound, the Gazzew U4Tx is the way to go. With a heavier actuation force, it provides a satisfying and well-defined tactile bump that feels luxurious under your fingers. Its acoustic profile strikes a beautiful balance between a deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and a muted noise when topping out, making it perfect for a professional environment or for late-night typing sessions where noise might be a concern. In essence, choose the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for a lively and engaging experience, and opt for the U4Tx for a more sophisticated, quieter, and refined typing experience.
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