Akko Rosewood vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Akko Rosewood and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Rosewood and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer distinct characteristics that can significantly influence your typing experience. The Akko Rosewood is celebrated for its deep, satisfying "thock" sound, thanks to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that enhances acoustics right out of the box. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate audible feedback and a more tactile sensation, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a nostalgic, satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch brings a revolution in silent typing, featuring a self-padding design and dual-rail structure that ensures unparalleled smoothness and stability. The soft, elastic feel of the Zero Degree 0° is ideal for users seeking a quieter and more serene typing experience, which can be particularly appealing in shared workspaces. Both switches cater to different preferences, but ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or silent smoothness and subtlety in your 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Rosewood and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, notable differences emerge between the two switches due to their top housings. The Akko Rosewood features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound vibrations and create a more rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° employs a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's rigidity enhances clarity and resonance in sound, resulting in a bright auditory feedback that is particularly suited for users who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke sound. The aesthetic qualities also differ, as the clear polycarbonate housing of the Gateron switch can beautifully showcase RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal that nylon cannot provide.
On the bottom housing front, both the Akko Rosewood and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches utilize nylon materials. This shared choice results in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile during actuation, as nylon's sound-absorbing properties remain influential in producing a warm auditory experience. With both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect similar tactile feedback and sound during key presses. This commonality in bottom housing material fosters an overall coherence in the keystroke experience, where the acoustic and tactile aspects will be aligned regardless of the contrasting materials used in the top housing.
The differences between the top and bottom housings illustrate how each contributes uniquely to the final typing experience. In the case of the Akko Rosewood, the softer nylon top housing creates a smooth sound when releasing the keys, while the nylon bottom housing reinforces that deep auditory character upon bottoming out. For the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, the polycarbonate top housing provides a bright sound upon release, complemented by the consistent, deeper tones of the nylon bottom housing, reminiscent of the Rosewood's actuation experience. Ultimately, while the top housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles, the shared bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver enjoyable tactile feedback, making them suitable for different aesthetic preferences and sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Rosewood switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which facilitates a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended periods of use. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, making it feel more substantial for users who prefer a stronger push. However, the bottom out force for the Gateron switch is not specified, leaving a gap in the comparison. The Rosewood's bottom out force is 50 grams, further contributing to its overall lighter feel. For those who favor a lighter switch for comfort during long typing or gaming sessions, the Akko Rosewood is the preferable option, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offers a bit more resistance, catering to those who appreciate a heavier push.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Rosewood linear switch measures 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Rosewood offers a more traditional feel with a greater depth, making it potentially more satisfying for users who enjoy a hearty keypress. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° switch makes it more suitable for users who seek quick response times, such as gamers who benefit from faster keystrokes. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness and agility in your typing or gaming experience, the Gateron switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more pronounced keypress and don't mind the extra distance, the Akko Rosewood would be more appropriate.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 Rosewood linear switch produces a deep, satisfying thocky sound straight out of the box, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that accentuates its acoustic profile. This acoustic signature makes it ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback while typing, resulting in a richer aural experience. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch prioritizes silent operation, employing an innovative self-padding design and a dual-rail structure that significantly dampens sound. This design effectively absorbs noise, enabling a quieter typing experience that is especially valued in shared workspaces or for late-night typing sessions. Users who opt for the Rosewood will enjoy a more resonant sound, while those who choose the Zero Degree 0° will appreciate its whisper-quiet performance.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Rosewood switch provides a smooth and responsive typing experience, marked by a satisfying tactile response that many users find pleasurable. The slight lubrication complements the linear action, making it feel slick without compromising feedback. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch excels in offering unparalleled smoothness and a soft, elastic feel, thanks to its unique structure designed to promote stability and reduce tactile noise. This makes the Zero Degree 0° switch feel particularly plush during usage, appealing to those who favor a less pronounced tactile sensation while still wanting a fluid typing experience.
In summary, both the Akko Rosewood and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches cater to distinct preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Rosewood is perfect for those who relish a rich, deeper sound and a plush feel, making it suitable for an expressive typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is ideal for users seeking a quieter, smoother typing experience that minimizes sound while maintaining stability and comfort. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced auditory experience or a silent, effortless typing journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you appreciate a tactile experience with a deep, satisfying thocky sound when you type, the Akko Rosewood is an excellent option for you, especially if you enjoy the subtle auditory feedback that enhances your typing experience. This switch, with its light 50-gram bottom-out force, is particularly suitable if you often find yourself typing for long hours and prefer minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you work or game in a shared space where noise can be disruptive, the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, with its innovative self-padding design, is more suited for you. This switch offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet typing experience, thanks to its dual-rail structure which absorbs sound, making it ideal for silent environments. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only your personal typing style but also the pragmatic considerations of your working or gaming setting.
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