Gateron Aliaz vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4, both tactile switches with unique characteristics. The Aliaz switches stand out for their quiet operation, making them ideal for office settings where noise can be a concern. With a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, they are favored by those who appreciate a pronounced typing feedback without the clatter. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches offer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, paired with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation for a luxurious typing experience. Their whisper-quiet sound profile adds a touch of elegance to your typing. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4 switches both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aliaz provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness, offering a different typing sensation for users who prefer a more muted sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches feature polycarbonate in the Aliaz and the Gazzew blend in the U4. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz offers a similar sharp and clear sound profile as its top housing, maintaining consistency in sound throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 contributes to the rich and deep sound profile of the switch, providing a tactile typing experience that complements the top housing's qualities. While the housing materials may differ between the two switches, they each bring their own unique sound characteristics to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4 switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer distinct qualities in their housing materials that cater to different preferences, whether it be for a clear and crisp sound profile with the Aliaz's polycarbonate housing, or a rich and deep sound profile with the U4's Gazzew blend housing. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that can be tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the U4. The Aliaz requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 75 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the U4 only needs 45 grams to actuate and 62 grams to bottom out, which puts it in the medium range in terms of force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the U4 would be the better choice, as it requires less force to engage. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Aliaz would provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the Aliaz being the heavier option and the U4 being the lighter option.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the U4 has a slightly shorter travel distance, which could be favored by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer variations in travel distance that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the right fit for their typing or gaming needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and speed of actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Gazzew U4 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, both the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4 switches are described as muted, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. However, the U4 also has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While both switches are ideal for use in quiet environments, the U4 may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more soothing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switches are characterized as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches are known for their sharp tactile bump, providing a strong and crisp feedback intensity with each keypress. If you enjoy a smooth and polished typing feel, the Aliaz switches may be the better choice, while the U4 switches are a great option for those who seek a more pronounced and distinct tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4 tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and substantial feel, the Aliaz switches may be the ideal pick. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation, the U4 switches could be the perfect fit for you. It's important to consider your personal typing preferences and desired typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz or the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a heavier bottom-out force and a more substantial typing feel, the Aliaz may be the better choice for you, especially if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback without the noise. On the other hand, if you want a medium bottom-out force with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, the U4 may be more to your liking. Both switches offer a muted sound profile, but the U4 also provides a low-pitched tone. Ultimately, the decision between the Aliaz and U4 tactile switches will depend on your typing style, preferences, and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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