Bsun Cliff vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, both the Bsun Cliff and the Gazzew U4 present appealing options for tactile switch enthusiasts, each with distinct characteristics. The Cliff is recognized for its medium tactility combined with a crisp auditory feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a noticeable response without overpowering sound. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switches shine with a sharp, exhilarating tactile bump that enhances the typing experience while providing a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation; their muted, low-pitched sound profile ensures a quieter typing environment, perfect for shared spaces or late-night work sessions. While the Cliff offers a more pronounced auditory engagement, the U4 embraces a whisper-quiet operation without sacrificing tactile satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique typing preferences.

By the numbers

Bsun Cliff Tactile

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the Gazzew U4, we see a distinctive contrast in their compositions, which influences the overall sound profile produced by each switch. The Cliff features a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its stiffness and translucency, generating a sharp and crisp sound. This feature is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting enthusiasts, as the clear polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination. In contrast, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This blend is softer than polycarbonate, lending itself to a richer and deeper sound profile, which caters to those who prefer a more muted auditory experience. The difference in top housing materials directly affects how each switch responds to key releases, with the Cliff providing a more pronounced sound and the U4 yielding a gentler acoustic output.

Examining the bottom housing, the comparison continues with both switches employing soft materials that enhance sound absorption. The Cliff uses nylon for its bottom housing, traditional in the industry for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile. Nylon's softness contributes to a dampening effect, resulting in a rounder auditory character during key presses. Conversely, the U4's bottom housing similarly incorporates the soft proprietary Gazzew blend, which also excels in sound insulation. This shared emphasis on soft materials in the bottom housing helps to create a rich and deep sound profile for both switches, indicating that users can expect a somewhat similar auditory experience from the bottom-out sounds regardless of the top housing's contrasting materials.

Combining the attributes of both the top and bottom housings creates a unique interplay of sound properties for both the Bsun Cliff and the Gazzew U4. While the polycarbonate top of the Cliff delivers sharper sounds during key releases, the nylon bottom moderates the impact during presses, leading to a balanced performance. Similarly, the U4 benefits from its soft top and bottom housing, delivering deep auditory feedback across the entire key press and release cycle. In instances where the materials are markedly different, as is the case here, users will still experience overlapping qualities in terms of depth and resonance attributable to the softer bottom housing of both switches. Therefore, while the auditory nuances may vary, the switch performance retains a core identity defined by the material composition in both ends of the housing.

Weight

The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different typing preferences. The Cliff switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a great choice for users seeking ease and comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the U4 switch requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel during use. For users who value a lighter typing experience, the Cliff switch is the better option, while the U4 will suit individuals looking for more resistance and feedback. Ultimately, while both switches deliver a tactile experience, the Cliff offers a softer touch, whereas the U4 provides a firmer push, reflecting distinct user preferences.

Travel distance

Both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in a similar feel when pressed down. This equal travel distance means that users of either switch will experience a consistent actuation depth, providing comparable tactile feedback and response during use. With both switches designed to travel the same distance from top to bottom, users can expect similar results in terms of key press sensation and performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a crisp sound signature that adds a distinct auditory feedback to your typing experience. This characteristic is particularly appreciated by users who enjoy a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound profile, allowing for a satisfying auditory confirmation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 silent tactile switch is designed to prioritize whisper-quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more muted environment. Described as having a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone, the U4 minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience that is still pleasing to the ear but less intrusive.

In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch provides a medium tactility that balances feedback and smoothness, engaging typists without being overly aggressive. This makes it suitable for various typing styles, providing enough feedback to maintain awareness of key presses without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 excels in delivering a sharp tactile bump that is exhilarating and energizing. This strong feedback enhances the typing experience, making each keystroke feel satisfying, combined with an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation that contributes to a comfortable typing experience. While both switches cater to users who appreciate tactility, the Cliff delivers a more moderate feedback while the U4 focuses on pronounced clarity in its tactile response.

Overall, both the Bsun Cliff and Gazzew U4 tactile switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cliff offers a crisp auditory response with medium tactility, making it versatile for various typing environments. In contrast, the U4 is designed for those who prioritize a silent experience with a sharp tactile sensation and a plush bottom-out feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, you may find appealing benefits in either switch, and if you're looking for a balance between these qualities, you might find a suitable compromise by mixing both aspects in your keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you favor a lighter typing experience with a medium tactility and appreciate a crisp sound profile, the Cliff is an excellent choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it particularly suitable for prolonged typing sessions where fatigue can be a concern. On the other hand, if you seek a more substantial feel with a heavier actuation force and a unique plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 is the way to go. With its 62-gram actuation force, the U4 offers a sharp tactile bump that can enhance your sense of precision while typing. Additionally, if you work in quiet surroundings or simply prefer a muted experience, the U4's subdued sound profile will be more in line with your needs. In summary, opt for the Cliff if you prioritize a lighter, more audible switch and the U4 if you desire a firm tactile feedback combined with a quieter operation.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Cliff Tactile

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more