Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gazzew U4 offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Matcha Green Pro switches are linear, providing a smooth and substantial keystroke with a sharp bottom-out that delivers clear and tactile feedback, making them ideal for typists and gamers who enjoy a responsive feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches are tactile, offering a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump while also providing a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation for a more subtle typing experience. The U4s are known for their whisper-quiet sound profile, perfect for those seeking a low-pitched and muted 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness. In contrast, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile attributed to its softness. While both housings offer different sound characteristics, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housings, the V3 Matcha Green Pro incorporates a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile, ensuring a pleasant typing experience. Although the materials differ, both switches offer a unique sound quality that caters to different preferences, whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, richer tone.
When it comes to overall typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials are evenly distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Whether one chooses the V3 Matcha Green Pro with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing or the Gazzew U4 with its proprietary blend top and bottom housing, both switches offer a variety of sound profiles for an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, the actuation force for the V3 Matcha Green Pro is 55 grams, while the actuation force for the U4 is 45 grams, making the U4 the lighter of the two. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro requiring 63 grams and the U4 requiring 62 grams. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly heavier actuation force for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the U4 provides a lighter actuation force that may be more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the differences in actuation force between the two switches may result in varying typing experiences for users.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a less abrupt typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
The Gazzew U4 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 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, offering a sharp and snappy sound with a higher-pitched tone that provides an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as muted and low-pitched, producing a softer and quieter sound profile that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on your choice of board and keycaps, you can achieve different sound profiles with each switch.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and substantial typing experience with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out. The Gazzew U4 tactile switch, known for its sharp tactile bump, provides a strong and crisp tactile feedback that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Matcha Green Pro focusing on smoothness and responsiveness while the U4 delivers a more intense tactile sensation.
Overall, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and resonant sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the Matcha Green Pro switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted and low-pitched sound with a sharp and intense tactile feedback, the U4 switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a smooth and substantial keystroke with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, then the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch would be an ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a felt-like bottom-out sensation that is whisper quiet, then the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the way to go. Consider your preferences for sound and feel, as well as the level of bottom-out force you are comfortable with when making your decision between these two outstanding mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gazzew U4 will come down to your personal typing preferences and what you value most in a keyboard switch.
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