Akko Penguin vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer tactile feedback, but with unique characteristics. The Akko Penguin is ideal for office environments thanks to its silent tactile design, making it perfect for noise-sensitive situations. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin provides a satisfying typing experience without causing fatigue, making it great for prolonged use. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx combines the deep, resonant sound of the U4T with the quiet stealth of the U4, creating a refined sound profile that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference based on sound profile and 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Gazzew U4Tx both focus on providing a deep and rich sound profile due to their softness. However, while the Penguin uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both components. This difference may lead to variations in the overall sound produced by the switches, with the Penguin potentially offering a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the U4Tx's richer and deeper sound profile.
Despite the slight differences in their housing materials, both the Akko Penguin and the Gazzew U4Tx ultimately aim to enhance the typing experience through the use of soft plastics that absorb more sound. As a result, both switches are likely to provide a smoother typing experience with a softer bottom-out sound, making them ideal choices for those who prioritize a quieter and more tactile typing feel. Whether you choose the Penguin with its nylon housing or the U4Tx with its proprietary Gazzew blend housing, you can expect to enjoy a more subdued and comfortable typing experience overall.
In terms of feel and sound, the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Gazzew U4Tx play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. While the nylon used in the Penguin's housing may offer a slightly different sound profile compared to the Gazzew blend used in the U4Tx, both switches are likely to have a similar impact on the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer the slightly duller sound of the Penguin or the richer sound of the U4Tx, both switches are designed to provide a deep and satisfying typing experience that emphasizes a softer touch and a quieter typing sound.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that there are some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the U4Tx, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Penguin requiring 60 grams and the U4Tx requiring 62.5 grams. This means that while the Penguin may feel lighter to type on due to its lower actuation force, both switches provide a similar typing experience when bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin. Typically, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers looking for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular today. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance in relation to typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
The Gazzew U4Tx 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
In terms of sound, the Akko Penguin switch offers a muted and neutral profile, making it ideal for quiet office environments where noise reduction is a priority. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch provides a bassy and muted sound experience, combining a deep, rich tone with a whisper-quiet operation for a luxurious auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Penguin being more subdued and the U4Tx delivering a deeper resonance.
When it comes to the tactile feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle touch. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a high-intensity response with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress. While the Penguin focuses on a softer and more approachable typing feel, the U4Tx emphasizes a pronounced tactile sensation for a more intense typing experience.
Overall, the Akko Penguin and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Penguin switch excels in providing a balanced and quiet typing experience, making it perfect for office environments, while the U4Tx switch offers a deeper and more intense tactile feedback for those seeking a more pronounced typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct options that cater to different user needs, ensuring a satisfying and personalized mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Akko Penguin or the Gazzew U4Tx switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience for an office setting or if you prefer a medium weight switch with a rounded tactile bump, the Akko Penguin may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a luxurious typing experience with a deep, bassy sound profile and a sharp tactile bump, the Gazzew U4Tx switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing needs.
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