Gateron Aliaz vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments such as an office setting, with its silent design and medium-heavy weight providing a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch combines the best of both worlds by offering a refined sound profile that delivers a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out experience. While the Aliaz switch is known for its 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished' characteristics, the U4Tx switch is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp'. When deciding between these two switches, it is essential to consider whether you prioritize a quiet typing experience or a luxurious tactile sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4Tx, both switches offer unique features. The Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This is ideal for users who enjoy a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. This gives users a more cushioned and softer typing feel compared to the Aliaz.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aliaz and the U4Tx also offer distinct qualities. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sharper and crisper sound profile of the switch, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the flip side, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, or "boba plastic," adds to the rich and deep sound profile of the switch, providing users with a softer and more cushioned bottom-out experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback, appealing to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in material composition, both switches offer exceptional sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Aliaz provide a clear and crisp sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a stiffer typing feel. Conversely, the proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings of the U4Tx offer a softer and richer sound profile, catering to users who enjoy a more cushioned typing experience. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches deliver satisfying results based on the unique qualities of their respective materials.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Aliaz is also heavier at 75 grams, whereas the U4Tx has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the Aliaz switch requires more force to activate and press all the way down compared to the U4Tx switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the U4Tx may be more suitable due to its lower bottom out force. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel, the Aliaz may be the better option despite its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing pressure and feedback.
Travel distance
The Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4Tx. Although both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the Aliaz offers a bit more depth when pressed. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx, while those seeking a more substantial key press may lean towards the Aliaz. Ultimately, both switches offer a good balance between travel distance and key feel, providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew U4Tx offers a deeper and bassier sound profile compared to the muted sound of the Gateron Aliaz. The U4Tx provides a satisfying "thock" when bottoming out, mixed with a whisper-quiet topping out sound, giving it a unique acoustic appeal. On the other hand, the Aliaz focuses on minimizing noise for a quieter typing experience, making it more suitable for office settings or locations where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile for your mechanical keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth key press with minimized resistance for a comfortable typing feel. The Gazzew U4Tx, on the other hand, provides a sharp tactile bump that is intense and distinct with each keystroke. The U4Tx offers a more pronounced feedback intensity compared to the Aliaz, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Both switches excel in providing a tactile feel, but the choice between the two will come down to individual preference in terms of feedback intensity and smoothness of key presses.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Aliaz and Gazzew U4Tx both offer tactile switches, they differ in sound and feel characteristics. The Aliaz is more geared towards a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight for a substantial feel, while the U4Tx delivers a bassier sound profile and a sharp tactile bump for a more intense typing feedback. Both switches provide a luxurious typing experience tailored to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect switch for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aliaz or the U4Tx, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a heavier typing experience with a more pronounced tactile feedback in a quiet setting, the Aliaz switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner sound profile with a blend of deep bass tones and smoother key travel, the Gazzew U4Tx switch could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so be sure to consider your typing environment and desired typing experience before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Aliaz and U4Tx switches will depend on what you prioritize most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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