Akko Dracula vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and Gazzew U4Tx RGB embody distinct characteristics that cater to varying preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Akko Dracula, a linear switch, is celebrated for its ultra-smooth typing experience thanks to its innovative POK material and accelerated airflow design, making it an ideal choice for those who favor a fluid keystroke without tactile feedback or audible clicks. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, a tactile switch, enhances the typing experience with its deep "thock" sound upon bottoming out and a discernible tactile bump, appealing to users who appreciate a richer auditory and sensory feedback while typing. While the Dracula switch excels in providing a seamless experience conducive to rapid key pressing, the U4Tx offers a luxurious feel that many typists enjoy for both typing and gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Dracula Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Akko Dracula and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches showcase distinct approaches to their top housing materials that influence both performance and sound characteristics. The Akko Dracula utilizes POK material, prized for its impressive strength and low friction coefficient of 0.04. This combination results in incredibly smooth operation while ensuring exceptional durability—far surpassing traditional materials like POM and Nylon in shock resistance and wear. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB employs a proprietary plastic blend often dubbed "boba plastic." While Gazzew’s blend may not rival POK in terms of raw durability, it emphasizes auditory aspects, delivering a softer and deeper sound profile, effectively prioritizing acoustic experience over sheer toughness. Consequently, while both switches can provide smooth operation, the Dracula’s POK top may edge out in longevity, whereas Gazzew focuses on enriching the sound experience.

When analyzing the bottom housing, both the Akko Dracula and Gazzew U4Tx RGB feature materials that prioritize sound quality, aligning them closely in this regard. The Dracula’s use of nylon contributes to a rounded and fuller sound profile, which is characteristic of softer plastics that absorb sound and provide a more muted tone on bottoming out. Similarly, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB’s proprietary blend also promotes a rich depth in sound owing to its softness, which further emphasizes a similar auditory experience. This similarity suggests that while the materials differ at the top, both switches design their bottom housings to complement and enhance the acoustic properties, ensuring a satisfying auditory response when keys are pressed or released.

While the two switches implement different materials for the tops, they can still achieve compatible results in the overall typing experience, particularly in terms of sound. The unique characteristics of the top housing affect the release sound, where the Dracula’s POK provides a pronounced clack while the U4Tx RGB with its boba plastic offers a more subdued, deeper escape sound. Conversely, the bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in dictating the bottom-out sensation and acoustic response during typing. The softer nature of the nylon in the Dracula aligns well with the Gazzew blend, blending their individual strengths to create a well-rounded experience that caters to both tactile and auditory preferences. Ultimately, users seeking a blend of durability and sound richness may find solace in either option, given how the materials collectively influence the performance and perception of each switch.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula boasts a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch, which can facilitate extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy response, although its actuation force remains unspecified. This heavier resistance at the bottom can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a firmer key feel. As a result, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, catering to those who prioritize ease of pressing over tactile feedback, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers more resistance, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we see a slight difference that caters to different user preferences. The Akko Dracula has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB measures at 3.6 mm, presenting a shorter travel distance. This distinction may be significant for users looking for responsiveness, as those who prefer quicker actuation might lean towards the U4Tx RGB for its shorter travel distance. Conversely, the Dracula's deeper travel can provide a more satisfying tactile experience for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or prefer a richer depth in your keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Dracula switch is known for delivering a smooth and quiet typing experience, largely due to its unique POK material and airflow-enhancing design. This leads to a more subdued acoustic profile compared to traditional linear switches, making it suitable for environments where noise may be a concern. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch offers a distinct auditory character, featuring a deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and a quieter "thock" when topping out. This blend creates a refined sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience while still maintaining a satisfying auditory feedback.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula switch excels with its ultra-smooth feedback, thanks to the POK material and its thoughtful design, which includes an extra stem hole for improved smoothness during key presses. This results in a typing sensation that many users find enjoyable for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch emphasizes tactile feedback with a sharp bump, providing a luxurious experience as users feel the clear actuation point while typing. The combination of the tactile feedback and the refined sound enhances the overall interaction, making each key press a pleasure.

In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard spectrum. The Dracula offers a smooth, quiet experience ideal for those who prioritize a gentle typing sound and ultra-smooth feel. In contrast, the U4Tx provides a satisfying tactile bump and a richer sound profile that appeals to users seeking more feedback from their switches. Ultimately, you can expect to achieve similar enjoyment from both switches, depending on your specific typing style and sound preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter switch that provides a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Akko Dracula, with its 45 grams of bottom-out force and ultra-smooth action thanks to the POK material, would be an excellent choice. This makes it particularly appealing for fast typists or gamers who prioritize rapid key presses without the weight of a heavier switch. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback of a pronounced bump and a richer sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is worth considering. With a bottom-out force of 65 grams, this switch excels in delivering a robust "thock" when bottoming out, combined with a quiet sound at the top, providing a luxurious typing feel that many users find satisfying. Ultimately, think about whether you value smoothness or tactile feedback more; your specific needs will guide you to the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Dracula Linear

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more