HMX Cheese vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the linear HMX Cheese and the tactile Gazzew U4Tx. The HMX Cheese switches are best known for their unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky sound signature that is lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a unique blend of deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and whisper-quiet topping out, providing a sharp tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gazzew U4Tx have some similarities in terms of sound profile due to their softness. The Cheese's nylon top and bottom housing and the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing both create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon and the Gazzew blend are softer plastics that absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound for both switches.
However, there are also some differences between the two housing materials. The Cheese's nylon housing is a classic switch housing material that is known for its ability to produce a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile as well. The Gazzew blend may have a slightly different texture or feel compared to nylon, which could impact the overall typing experience.
When it comes to the impact on the overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material are crucial for the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The top housing material, on the other hand, plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. While both the Cheese and the U4Tx offer similar sound profiles due to their soft housing materials, the slight differences in material composition may lead to a unique typing experience for each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences to users. The Cheese has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which offers a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force of the U4Tx is not specified, but given the higher bottom out force, it is safe to assume that it would require more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Cheese. Ultimately, the Cheese would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the U4Tx would be suitable for those who prefer a more resistant and tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for faster response times, especially among gamers. The slight difference in their travel distances may not be significant in terms of performance, as they are both shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance to suit individual typing or gaming styles.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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 HMX Cheese switches offer a unique clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that is unmatched in the world of mechanical keyboard switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches provide a more refined and subdued sound profile, characterized by a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out noise. The Cheese switches lean towards a more energetic and lively sound, while the U4Tx switches focus on a cleaner and quieter typing experience. Depending on your preference, you can choose between the energetic sound of the Cheese or the refined sound of the U4Tx.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese switches are known for their unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a sharp tactile bump that provides a high feedback intensity with each keypress. The Cheese switches provide a smooth and consistent typing experience, while the U4Tx switches offer a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of the typing feel you prefer.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switches and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a more energetic and lively typing experience with a unique sound profile like the Cheese switches or a refined and tactile typing experience with a cleaner sound profile like the U4Tx switches, both options provide top-notch performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to your personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring that you'll receive a satisfying typing experience no matter which switch you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a super-light switch with a smooth and satisfying typing experience, along with a clacky, poppy sound, then the HMX Cheese switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a cleaner, refined sound profile, and a sharp, satisfying tactile bump with each keypress, then the Gazzew U4Tx switch is the better option for you. Consider your typing style and sound preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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