Bsun Pine vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Pine and Gazzew U4T are both tactile mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for typists. The BSUN Pine switches are praised for their sharp tactile bump and long pole stem, resulting in a distinct and quick bottom-out for those who prefer no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Ts offer a harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile along with assertive tactile feedback for auditory and tactile satisfaction. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's delve deeper beyond these general descriptions to help you make the best decision on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique sound profiles due to their specific properties. The Pine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also referred to as "boba plastic," that delivers a richer and deeper sound profile. While the Pine's polycarbonate housing provides a clear and resonant sound, the U4T's blend offers a softer and more absorbing quality for a rounder sound.
The differentiation continues with the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The Pine incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller but rounder tone. On the other hand, the U4T's Gazzew blend bottom housing mirrors its top housing, providing a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both housing materials offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch.
It is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are distinct and provide varied impacts on the sound and feel of the switches. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the Bsun Pine and the Gazzew U4T will depend on individual preferences for the specific sound profiles and typing experiences offered by each housing material combination.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are some differences to consider. The Bsun Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gazzew U4T, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 65 grams, making them both medium-heavy in terms of force required to fully press the key. The Pine may be favored by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use, while the U4T may appeal to those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Gazzew U4T tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the U4T provides a more substantial depth to the key press with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different advantages, so selecting the one with the appropriate travel distance depends on individual preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The Gazzew U4T 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 BSUN Pine switches are known for their clear and sharp sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switches offer a deeper and richer sound with a bassy 'thock' that resonates prominently. Both switches provide distinct and pleasing sound characteristics, but the U4T may offer a more immersive auditory experience due to its bassier tones.
Moving on to feel, the BSUN Pine switches are acclaimed for their accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a pronounced and responsive typing sensation. These switches are characterized by their sharp and snappy tactile bump, providing a satisfying tactile experience with every keystroke. The Gazzew U4T switches, on the other hand, also boast a sharp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each key press. Both switches offer a high level of tactile feedback and a responsive typing feel, ensuring a heightened typing experience for the user.
In conclusion, both the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch present notable qualities that cater to different preferences. The Pine switch excels in providing a clear and direct tactile feedback with quick bottom-out, while the U4T switch offers a harmonious blend of thocky sound and sharp tactility. Depending on whether you prioritize a sharper sound profile or a bassier thock, both switches deliver a tactile typing experience that is sure to satisfy keyboard enthusiasts seeking distinct and satisfying feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a sharp, fast, and distinctive tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Bsun Pine switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a harmonious blend of thocky sound and sharp tactility, with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Gazzew U4T switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what feels best for you.