Kailh Box Royal vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Royal and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Box Royal is known for its unparalleled tactility, offering a sharp and binary tactile feedback that is ideal for those seeking an aggressive typing experience. Additionally, it has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, adding a touch of character to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches provide the best of both worlds, combining a cleaner and refined sound profile with a luxurious and satisfying tactile bump. With the U4T delivering a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out, and the U4 providing a whisper-quiet topping out experience, every press is a delight to the senses. Both switches offer unique qualities, allowing you to choose according to your personal preferences. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Gazzew U4Tx switches exhibit some similarities and differences. Both switches feature housing made from soft plastics, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The Box Royal utilizes a nylon top housing, while the U4Tx integrates a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also referred to as "boba plastic." Both materials derive their softness from being relatively softer plastics compared to harder alternatives.
In terms of sound profile, both the Box Royal's nylon top housing and the U4Tx's Gazzew blend top housing deliver rich and deep sounds due to their softness. The absorption of more sound by the softer plastics offers a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, it is essential to note that the specific proprietary blend used in the U4Tx switch introduces a unique characteristic sometimes associated with "boba plastic." This distinction might influence the sound profile, differentiating it slightly from the traditional nylon housing of the Box Royal.
Moving to the bottom housings, both switches again employ soft plastics that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The Box Royal applies a nylon bottom housing, while the U4Tx uses a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. The impact of the bottom housing mainly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. As both materials are soft plastics, they share the quality of imparting a rich and deep sound to the typing experience.
Overall, although there are slight differences due to the proprietary blend used in the Gazzew U4Tx switch, the housing materials of both switches exhibit comparable characteristics. The softer plastics in their top and bottom housings contribute to a deep and full sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience. While the specific proprietary blend in the U4Tx switch differentiates it slightly from the traditional nylon housing of the Box Royal, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, one notable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Kailh Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of keypress resistance. In contrast, the actuation force for the Gazzew U4Tx is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, also categorizing it as medium-heavy. Although the exact actuation force for the U4Tx is unknown, the similar bottom out force suggests that it might provide a comparable typing experience to the Kailh Box Royal in terms of required pressure. Both switches offer a tactile response, but the Box Royal is slightly heavier overall. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter feel may appreciate the Kailh Box Royal for its lower actuation force, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for switches with heavier forces like the Gazzew U4Tx or the slightly heavier Box Royal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key fitted with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled. Therefore, the travel distance of both switches is equal, ensuring a consistent typing experience regardless of which one is chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50.
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
The Kailh Box Royal and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer distinct subjective qualities in both sound and feel.
Starting with sound, the Box Royal switches have a relatively higher pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can be pleasing for those who prefer a more pronounced and noticeable sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches offer a different sound experience. They are described as having a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the U4Tx switches are described as muted, meaning they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, both the Box Royal and U4Tx switches are described as having a sharp tactile feel. This means that they provide a high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This tactile feedback adds to the typing experience and can be satisfying for those who prefer switches with a noticeable bump.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal switches are known for their aggressive tactility and higher pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a cleaner, refined sound profile with a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out. Both switches provide a sharp and satisfying tactile bump. If you're looking for a tactile switch with a more aggressive tactility and a higher pitched sound, the Box Royal would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a cleaner, deeper sound profile combined with a sharp tactile feel, the U4Tx switches would be an excellent option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a highly tactile and aggressive typing experience with a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal switches are the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a nearly aggressive tactility with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams. They provide a distinct and sharp tactile bump that can be felt with each keypress. The sound profile of the Box Royal switches is relatively higher pitched, giving you a sharp and crisp sound when typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner and refined sound profile with a luxurious typing experience, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are an excellent option. These switches combine the deep and resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out. The U4Tx switches offer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, providing a satisfying tactile bump with every keypress. The sound profile of the U4Tx switches is characterized by a deeper and richer bassy tone, giving you a more acoustically pleasing experience. Additionally, the U4Tx switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, minimizing noise.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the Gazzew U4Tx switches depends on your preference for tactile intensity and sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and more aggressive tactile experience with a higher pitched sound, the Box Royal switches are ideal. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner and more refined sound profile with a deep and bassy tone, the U4Tx switches are a great choice. Consider your typing preferences and the acoustics you desire to make an informed decision.
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