Akko Fairy vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role, and the Akko Fairy and Gazzew U4Tx RGB serve distinct styles of typing. The Akko Fairy is a linear switch that excels in office environments, offering a refined typing experience with its factory-applied lubrication that ensures smooth keystrokes. Its medium weight strikes a perfect balance, providing enough resistance for an enjoyable press without causing fatigue, making it an excellent option for extended use in professional settings. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is a tactile switch that combines a deep "thock" sound with a noticeable tactile bump, providing a luxurious typing experience. While the U4Tx offers an engaging auditory feedback, it remains discreet enough for quieter workspaces. Both switches cater to different user preferences—whether you value the smoothness and muted nature of the Fairy or the satisfying tactile feedback of the U4Tx, each switch offers something unique. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Fairy Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, it becomes evident that both switches utilize nylon and a proprietary plastic blend that emphasize sound profile and tactile feedback. The Akko Fairy uses traditional nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its softer structure, which in turn absorbs more sound and promotes a deeper, fuller typing experience. This characteristic in the Fairy contributes to a rounder sound profile, providing a warm auditory feedback that many typists appreciate. The Fairy's consistent use of nylon across both housing sections ensures uniformity in sound and feel, particularly noticeable when bottoming out the switch, where the softer material dampens noise effectively.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB features a proprietary blend often associated with the term "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. This specialized material, like nylon, offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its inherent softness. The use of this unique blend is designed to enhance the auditory experience, similar to nylon, while potentially introducing distinct tonal qualities. The U4Tx RGB capitalizes on this proprietary plastic's ability to absorb sound, mirroring the performance seen in the Akko Fairy and suggesting that users can expect a comparably satisfying typing experience regarding sound.

Despite the differences in material compositions, the similarities in how both switch designs utilize their respective housing materials lead to comparable results in typing acoustics and sensation. In both cases, whether through nylon in the Fairy or Gazzew's boba plastic in the U4Tx RGB, the fundamental characteristic of sound absorption remains a crucial element. The impact of each housing type can be felt distinctly; for instance, the softer bottom housing of both switch designs significantly affects the bottom-out feel and noise while the top housing contributes to the release sound. Ultimately, whether through nylon or a proprietary blend, users can enjoy a rich, deep sound profile in their typing experience with both switches, highlighting the effectiveness of softer materials in keyboard switch design.

Weight

The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offer distinct typist experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as medium in weight, which makes it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing excessive finger fatigue. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch lacks a specified actuation force, although it does feature a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This indicates that while the U4Tx RGB requires a stronger push to register keystrokes (the actuation force is unknown), it provides a more substantial feel when bottoming out. Consequently, the Akko Fairy is the lighter option due to its known actuation force, favoring users who prefer a gentler touch for prolonged use, whereas the Gazzew switch caters to those who appreciate a stronger tactile experience during typing due to its heavier bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we find that the Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the U4Tx RGB features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Akko Fairy the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users who prefer quicker response times and a more responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more tactile feedback and a deeper keystroke that some users find satisfying, especially those who prefer a heartier feel in their typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding tactile response and travel depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profiles of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch present an interesting contrast. The Fairy switch is characterized as muted and neutral, producing a softer, quieter sound that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it an excellent choice for office environments where noise reduction is valued. On the other hand, while the U4Tx RGB doesn't have a specific sound description provided, it is known for producing a deep "thock" when bottomed out, combined with a quieter topping out sound. This results in a more refined sound profile, ideal for users who appreciate a luxurious auditory experience without being overly disruptive.

When it comes to feel, the Fairy switches demonstrate a polished, mild, and subtle tactile experience. The factory lubrication ensures a smooth and refined keypress, reducing friction and making typing more comfortable, especially for extended sessions. The gentle resistance further contributes to a relaxed typing feel, making them approachable for users of all levels. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switches have a sharp tactile bump, which provides a more pronounced feedback experience. Although specific descriptors for the feel of the U4Tx RGB are unknown, the luxurious typing experience touted would suggest a satisfying and engaging interaction that might be preferable to those who like a bit more feedback with each keystroke.

In conclusion, while the Akko Fairy linear switch excels in delivering a muted and neutral sound along with a polished and subtle feel, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offers a luxurious auditory experience characterized by a deep "thock" and a sharp tactile bump. The Fairy is particularly well-suited for quieter, professional environments, while the U4Tx RGB caters nicely to those who seek a more tactile and engaging feel. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback, and both can provide satisfying results in their respective contexts.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended usage scenarios. If you're seeking a switch that excels in office environments or for extended typing sessions, the Fairy switch is an excellent option. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a balanced resistance that allows for a comfortable, fatigue-free experience while minimizing noise, making it well-suited for shared spaces. Its polished feel and muted sound profile enhance productivity without drawing attention, which is often ideal for professional settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience with a pronounced bump and an engaging sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is the better choice. With a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, it offers a satisfying tactile feedback and a deeper sound that can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy gaming or typing for leisure. By aligning your choice with the specific demands of your usage, you can ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience tailored to your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Fairy Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more