Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Akko Rosewood both stand out as excellent linear options, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Glory Yellow switches are known for their heavier actuation, providing a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance that many users find enjoyable for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switches are celebrated for their distinctive, deep thocky sound, enhanced by a factory-applied layer of lubricant that contributes to a satisfying auditory experience. While one may favor the pronounced tactile feedback and weight of the Glory Yellow for a more robust feel, the other might be drawn to the acoustic pleasure and smoothness of the Rosewood for a more nuanced typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Akko Rosewood switches, it becomes clear that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. The use of nylon as a housing material in both switches contributes significantly to their acoustic properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic between the two switches stems from the inherent qualities of nylon, which is a softer plastic. Because it absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, both the Gateron and Akko switches produce a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing.

Despite the similarities in housing materials leading to comparable sound profiles, it is worthwhile to consider how variations in design and engineering might influence the overall performance. While both switches feature nylon in both the top and bottom housings, the attributes of each housing can affect the typing experience differently. The bottom housing typically influences the bottom-out sound when the key is fully pressed, while the top housing affects the sound and feel when releasing a key. Hence, even if the materials are the same, the operational feel and sound might still vary slightly, giving each switch its own unique personality and user experience.

In summary, the Gateron Glory Yellow and Akko Rosewood switches provide similar aural properties due to their nylon housing materials, which foster a rich typing sound. However, any subtle differences in switch design and housing configurations could lead to distinct tactile feedback or sound variations. Nevertheless, users seeking a deeper and fuller typing experience from either switch can expect a satisfying performance, as the nylon construction of both switches plays a crucial role in achieving these results. Thus, while there may be differences, the common use of nylon drives a congruent typing experience across both models.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Rosewood is lighter at 40 grams. This difference suggests that the Rosewood switch would be more suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. However, the Glory Yellow's higher actuation force may appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel while typing. In terms of bottom out force, the Glory Yellow's value is unknown, while the Rosewood's bottom out force is set at 50 grams, indicating that it offers a clear feedback when fully pressed down. Overall, users seeking a lighter keypress may gravitate towards the Akko Rosewood, while those who appreciate a firmer actuation should consider the Gateron Glory Yellow.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch both share the same travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they offer a similar tactile experience when pressed. This equivalence means that users can expect comparable results in terms of keystroke engagement and responsiveness with either switch. As both switches travel the same distance from the top to the bottom, preferences for either switch may ultimately come down to other factors such as feel, sound, or build quality rather than travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Yellow switches have a more subdued acoustic profile, characterized by a softer, less pronounced noise during typing. This makes them suitable for environments where noise can be a concern. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switches produce a pronounced thocky sound that resonates with each keystroke. This depth of sound is further enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, resulting in a more satisfying auditory experience. Therefore, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Glory Yellow may be the better choice, while those seeking a more tactile auditory feedback will gravitate toward the Rosewood.

When considering the feel, the Glory Yellow switches offer a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, designed to facilitate a comfortable typing experience. They deliver even pressure throughout the keystroke, ensuring that each press is consistent and rewarding. Conversely, the Rosewood switches are engineered to provide equally smooth keystrokes but emphasize a slightly different tactile sensation. While both switches are linear, the Rosewood might have a bit more resistance towards the bottom-out, providing a different feedback that some typists may find more engaging. Ultimately, both switches are designed for a fluid typing experience, but personal preference will dictate which is favored.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Akko Rosewood linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Glory Yellow excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a smooth feel, making it suitable for those who need discretion while typing, while the Rosewood offers a richer sound and potentially more engaging tactile feedback. Depending on your sound preferences and desired tactile experience, both switches can lead to an enjoyable mechanical keyboard journey, providing distinct yet satisfying typing nuances.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between Gateron Glory Yellow linear switches and Akko Rosewood linear switches will largely depend on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a smooth keystroke with a short travel distance that allows for quick, light-keyed presses without much effort, the Glory Yellow switches may be an excellent choice for your typing or gaming experience. They are well-suited for speed and require less actuation force, making them ideal if you enjoy fast-paced typing or gaming and prefer a more responsive feel. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deeper, more satisfying sound profile paired with a touch of resistance in your keystrokes, the Rosewood switches can provide a rich auditory experience thanks to their thocky output, enhanced by factory lubrication. These are perfect for those who enjoy typing for extended periods and seek a more tactile feedback combined with auditory satisfaction. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you—be it sound, feel, or actuation force—to select the switch that best complements your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more