Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB each bring unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The V3 Matcha Green Pro, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth and substantial feel, delivering a solid, responsive keystroke that leaves users with a gratifyingly sharp bottom-out and a resonant clack that typists and gamers will appreciate. This switch is ideal for those who value a bouncy, clacky experience, making it a top choice for enthusiasts who enjoy a lively typing sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a tactile experience, merging the deep “thock” present at the bottom with the near-silent topping out, resulting in a luxurious, refined sound profile. With its sharp tactile bump, this switch caters to those seeking a more sumptuous feel while remaining quiet during use—ideal for environments where noise is a concern. Both switches offer compelling features, but they cater to very different user experiences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, we observe notable differences in the top housing composition that influence their acoustic profiles. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material recognized for its rigidity and translucency, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffness allows for a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, particularly appealing for users who enjoy RGB lighting, as the clear polycarbonate effectively showcases the colors and brightness of the lighting. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB features a proprietary Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," which emphasizes a softer material. This softness engenders a richer and deeper sound quality, providing a distinct auditory experience that diverges from the bright clarity offered by polycarbonate.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to their overall sound characteristics in a similar manner despite the differences in their top housings. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its soft structure absorbs more sound, creating a duller yet rounder auditory output. Since both the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the U4Tx RGB share this nylon material in their bottom housings, their bottom-out sound and feel, when pressed, will exhibit parallels in their auditory qualities. This shared material ensures that, despite the differences in the top housing, the switches can still deliver a comparable deep acoustic experience, emphasizing the impact of the bottom housing.
Ultimately, the combination of differing materials in the top housings and the shared nylon bottom housing means that the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB provide users with distinct yet complementary sound profiles. While the V3's polycarbonate top accentuates clarity and brightness, the U4Tx's soft Gazzew blend offers richness and depth. The interplay between the softer bottom material and the different top materials means that users can choose switches based on their preferred sound signature, whether they seek the crisp and clear results from the Akko or the warm, deep experience from Gazzew. Regardless of which switch is chosen, both will ensure a satisfying typing experience driven by the unique characteristics of their housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch exhibit distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Matcha Green Pro features an actuation force of 55 grams, allowing it to provide a relatively light typing experience, while its bottom out force reaches 63 grams, signaling a medium feel overall. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy response when fully pressed. This makes the U4Tx RGB heavier than the V3 Matcha Green Pro, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, users who prioritize a lighter switch for longer typing sessions should gravitate towards the V3 Matcha Green Pro, while those who appreciate a firmer feel may find the U4Tx RGB more suitable for their needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we find that the former has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the latter measures 3.6 mm. This indicates that the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a longer travel distance than the U4Tx RGB. For users seeking a more responsive experience, the shorter travel distance of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB may be more appealing, as it can provide quicker actuation ideal for gaming. However, those who appreciate a more substantial depth when pressing keys might favor the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, given its longer travel distance, which allows for a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more traditional and satisfying keystroke experience.
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 U4Tx RGB 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 celebrated for its clacky and resonant qualities. Users can expect a sharp and percussive auditory experience, with a crisp, bright sound profile that becomes more immersive with each keystroke. This switch emits a clean and sharp sound that can be quite satisfying for typists and gamers alike. In contrast, details regarding the sound profile of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch are currently unavailable. As such, it’s unclear how this switch compares particularly in terms of auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches shine with their bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky characteristics. These descriptors indicate a lively and responsive typing experience—offering an elastic feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery glide as fingers traverse the keys. This combination results in reduced friction and a seamlessly enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, there is no available information about the tactile or overall feel attributes for the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch. This absence makes it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of tactile sensation and overall user experience.
Considering the available information, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro is a compelling choice for those who prioritize both a satisfying auditory and tactile experience. Its clacky sound combined with a responsive and luxurious feel makes it particularly appealing for extended typing sessions or intense gaming. Without the sound and feel profiles of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB available, it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, for a newcomer, the V3 Matcha offers a thorough blend of pleasant auditory feedback and a delightful typing sensation, providing a solid foundation in the mechanical switch landscape.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a switch that delivers a satisfying and smooth keystroke, with the added excitement of pronounced clacks and bouncy feedback, the Matcha Green Pro may be your ideal candidate. Their 63-gram force offers a pleasant balance for both gaming and typing, making them versatile for various uses while providing a lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more refined and luxurious tactile experience, the U4Tx RGB with its firm 65-gram bottom-out force is likely to suit you better. The combination of a sharp tactile bump and a deep "thock" at the bottom creates a rich auditory experience that many typists adore, all while maintaining a stealthier sound profile during release. Additionally, if you're looking for a switch that enhances your gaming with its tactile feedback without overwhelming your surroundings, the U4Tx RGB might be the perfect fit. So, consider where and how you plan to use your mechanical keyboard: the V3 Matcha Green Pro for a lively and expressive typing journey, or the Gazzew U4Tx RGB for a sophisticated tactile experience.