Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Gazzew U4Tx offer unique qualities to consider. The Akko V3 Silver Pro is a linear switch tailored towards gamers, boasting easy-to-press keys with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, making it ideal for fast-paced situations where timing is crucial. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that combines the best of both worlds, delivering a refined sound profile with a sharp tactile bump and a luxurious typing experience. While the Akko V3 Silver Pro excels in providing a creamy and feathery typing experience with a high-pitched sound, the Gazzew U4Tx offers a bassy and muted typing experience with a sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and specific usage scenarios. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Silver Pro's housing materials present a contrast between its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing enhances the sound profile of the switch by creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiff nature. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing in the V3 Silver Pro allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
In comparison, the Gazzew U4Tx's housing materials consist of a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housings. This plastic blend, known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Unlike the V3 Silver Pro, the U4Tx does not have a contrasting combination of housing materials, but rather relies on the unique properties of its proprietary blend to provide a consistent sound experience throughout the switch. This results in a switch that offers a uniform sound profile with a softer and more resonant tone.
Although the housing materials of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Gazzew U4Tx differ, both switches aim to provide an enhanced sound experience through their unique materials. While the V3 Silver Pro utilizes the contrasting qualities of polycarbonate and nylon for its top and bottom housings, respectively, the U4Tx relies on its proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings. Regardless of the differences, both switches ultimately deliver a rich and deep sound profile, with the top housing impacting the sound when keys are released, and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that they have significant differences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Silver Pro has a relatively lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a smooth and light typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx has a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams, although the actuation force is not specified. This makes it a bit heavier and more substantial to type on compared to the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Akko V3 Silver Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Gazzew U4Tx.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The V3 Silver Pro would provide a slightly quicker response time compared to the U4Tx due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the V3 Silver Pro for this reason, as it allows for faster key presses. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable for typing or precise movements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro 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 V3 Silver Pro linear switch provides a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed, perfect for those who prefer a brighter sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a bassy sound with a muted quality, providing a deeper and richer sound profile that minimizes the overall noise level during typing. The choice between the two switches in terms of sound will depend on personal preference, with the V3 Silver Pro offering a more distinct and high-pitched sound, while the U4Tx provides a richer and quieter typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is designed to be easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that requires minimal exertion from the fingers. The switch is described as creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and low-impact typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and enhances overall comfort during extended use. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. This intense tactile sensation provides a distinctive typing experience that is preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback when typing.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the V3 Silver Pro provides a brighter and easier-to-press typing experience with a high-pitched sound, the U4Tx offers a deeper and more tactile feel with a bassy sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches providing a satisfying and luxurious typing experience in their own right.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you are a gamer looking for a switch with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, the V3 Silver Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a cleaner, refined sound profile and enjoy a sharp, satisfying tactile bump with each keypress, the U4Tx could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize a smoother, bassy sound profile with a luxurious typing experience (U4Tx) or a light, easy-to-press switch tailored for gaming performance (V3 Silver Pro). Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in your typing experience.
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