Akko Rosewood vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Rosewood and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB present two distinct choices catering to different preferences. The Rosewood switch is lauded for its deep, satisfying "thock" sound that resonates with each keystroke, enhanced further by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that offers a smooth experience right out of the box. As a linear switch, it provides a seamless journey from the top to the bottom, which can appeal to gamers and typists who value uninterrupted key presses without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer a delightful blend of sound and feel, characterized by a pronounced tactile bump and the same deep "thock" produced when bottoming out, but with quieter top-out sounds. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile response without excessive noise, providing a luxurious typing experience. Both switches have their own unique appeal—whether you prioritize the smoothness and sound of the Rosewood or the refined tactile feel of the U4Tx RGB. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Rosewood Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Akko Rosewood and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches employ different housing materials that impact their auditory and tactile characteristics. The Rosewood features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer texture. This quality allows the nylon to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a rounder and more muted acoustic profile. Similarly, the U4Tx RGB uses a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic" for its top housing. Although labeled differently, this material is designed to also provide a rich and deep sound, echoing the tonal qualities attributed to nylon. The fundamental similarity lies in their soft textures, suggesting that both switches would yield comparable sound experiences when typing.

In terms of the bottom housing, the characteristics are consistent with the top housing’s influence on sound production. The Akko Rosewood features a nylon bottom housing, which reinforces the overall auditory profile by anchoring the sound during actuation. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, again referred to as "boba plastic." Like its nylon counterpart, this plastic’s softness allows for effective sound absorption, promoting a fuller and rounder auditory experience. Both switches benefit from these softer materials that contribute to a cohesive sound profile, which enhances the typing experience by reducing any harshness typically associated with harder plastics.

Despite using different material terminologies, both the Rosewood and U4Tx RGB switches display similar outcomes in terms of sound quality due to their shared focus on softer housing materials. The impact of the soft housing materials manifests differently: the nylon and boba plastic both influence the sound upon bottoming out while uniquely shaping the sound when releasing the keys. This delineation indicates that even if the specific materials differ, the overall experience when engaging each switch may align closely, allowing users to enjoy a rich auditory experience across both switch types.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The Akko Rosewood features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which indicates a medium-heavy resistance when fully pressed down. This heavier bottom out force suggests a more substantial typing experience that some users may favor. Given these details, the Rosewood switch is the lighter option, while the U4Tx RGB presents a stronger resistance. Users looking for a lighter switch might find the Rosewood preferable, while those who enjoy a more robust feel may opt for the U4Tx RGB despite the absence of a specified actuation force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we see that the Rosewood features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx RGB measures 3.6 mm. This means that the Rosewood switch, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced keystroke, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a deeper typing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx RGB allows for quicker actuation, making it an ideal choice for gamers or those who prioritize responsiveness in their typing. Consequently, if you seek a keystroke that feels more robust and substantial, the Akko Rosewood is the better option, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx RGB suits those who favor speed and agility with its shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Rosewood linear switch is renowned for its deep, satisfying thocky sound, which is enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that allows for smoother acoustics right out of the box. This makes typing on the Rosewood feel rich and resonant, imparting a certain auditory pleasure with each keystroke. In comparison, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offers a unique sound profile that marries the deep "thock" produced when bottoming out with a quieter stealthy sound at the top end, creating a refined auditory experience. The combination of these sound qualities results in a typing experience that feels both luxurious and engaging. However, it’s important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps used, which can affect the final acoustic experience.

When evaluating the feel of these switches, the Akko Rosewood presents a seamless linear action, providing a smooth yet responsive typing feel that many users favor for tasks requiring speed and fluidity, making it a great choice for gamers and fast typists alike. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch stands out with its pronounced tactile bump, allowing for a distinct feedback sensation that can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction. The tactile bump feels sharp and defined, giving a luxurious tactile response that many users find appealing, particularly for typing-intensive workflows where the sensation of each keystroke can contribute to overall enjoyment and productivity.

In summary, both the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offer unique auditory and tactile experiences suitable for various preferences. The Rosewood excels with its deep, thocky sound and smooth, linear feel, providing an enjoyable and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB delivers a refined sound with a rich tactile feedback that is both engaging and satisfying. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a linear or tactile sensation while keeping in mind how the sound profile can be affected by other components in your keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you are seeking. If you prefer a lighter actuation with a smooth, linear feel that allows for rapid key presses without much resistance, the Rosewood is an excellent choice. With its deep and satisfying "thocky" sound, this switch provides a pleasurable auditory feedback that many find addictive, making it perfect for both gaming and general typing tasks. Conversely, if you appreciate the tactile feedback that helps confirm each keystroke without bottoming out too harshly, the U4Tx RGB may be more suitable for you. With its medium-heavy actuation force and refined sound profile, it strikes a balance between tactile satisfaction and quiet operation, which can enhance your typing accuracy and comfort during long sessions. In essence, select the Rosewood for a lightweight, acoustic experience, and opt for the U4Tx RGB for a more tactile and deliberate typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more