Gateron CM vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Gateron CM switches break away from convention with their full nylon housing, resulting in a deeper and richer sound signature. These switches are impeccably factory lubed, ensuring a smooth typing journey that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches provide a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches offer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4s have a sound profile that is whisper quiet, making them ideal for those who prefer a muted and low-pitched typing experience. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron CM Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials used in both the Gateron CM and the Gazzew U4 switches are aimed at enhancing the sound profile and user experience. The CM features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer nature and sound absorption properties. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches that use nylon. Similarly, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches offer comparable results when it comes to creating a duller and rounder sound during typing.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the CM and U4 differ in their material choices. The CM utilizes nylon as its bottom housing material, contributing to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. With its softer nature, nylon aids in creating a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the U4 incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also known as "boba plastic." This specific plastic blend adds to the rich and deep sound profile of the U4 switch, especially during the bottom-out sound and feel. While the materials may differ, both switches aim to enhance the user's typing experience by utilizing softer plastics in their bottom housings.

It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch each play a significant role in the overall sound profile. When using either the CM or U4, the impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a more noticeable impact when releasing a key. Despite the variations in housing materials, both the CM's nylon and the U4's Gazzew blend contribute to the switches' desired sound profiles. While the specifics may differ, users can expect similar results in terms of a deeper, fuller sound and a more rounded typing experience when using either switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the U4 switch requires a slightly lighter force of 43 grams to actuate. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating that they require a similar amount of force for a full keystroke.

The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gazzew U4 switch would be a suitable choice, as its actuation force is lighter than that of the Gateron CM switch. This lighter force allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron CM switch caters to individuals who prefer a stronger tactile response. The higher actuation force of 55 grams provides a more substantial push feel, giving a satisfying typing experience.

In terms of bottom out force, both switches require a force of 62 grams for a complete keystroke. This means that regardless of the actuation force, the end result in terms of required force is similar for both switches. Therefore, individuals looking for a consistent typing experience in terms of force required can achieve similar results with either the Gateron CM or the Gazzew U4 switch.

In summary, the Gateron CM linear switch is heavier in terms of actuation force compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch. The CM switch offers a stronger push feel and is more suitable for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 switch provides a lighter actuation force, making it ideal for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, both switches require a similar amount of force, making them comparable in that regard.

Travel distance

The Gateron CM linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. The similarity in travel distance ensures that the typing experience on both switches will be equally satisfying for users who prefer a precise and consistent keypress feel. Whether it is the Gateron CM linear switch or the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, you can expect a reliable typing experience with a travel distance of 3.6 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is best known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. The full nylon housing of the CM switch delivers a deeper and richer sound signature, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The U4 tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as having a muted and low-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The CM switches feature an impeccable factory lube job, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This gives a sleek and frictionless typing experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump. This means it offers a high feedback intensity, with a distinct and crisp tactile bump felt with each and every keypress.

In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch provides a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, along with a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience. Meanwhile, the U4 switch delivers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, along with a sharp tactile bump. Both switches offer unique sensations while typing, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound and feeling. However, it's important to remember that the overall typing experience can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. By considering these factors and personal preferences, newcomers can select the switch that suits their individual needs.

Conclusion

In summary, if you value a smooth typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer an effortless and gliding sensation with each keystroke. Additionally, the CMs produce a deeper and richer sound profile, characterized by a bassy and thocky tone, making your typing experience more satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and sharp feedback, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch would be a better fit. These switches provide a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4s also boast a whisper quiet sound profile, thanks to their muted and low-pitched characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preference for either a smooth and bouncy typing experience (CM) or a tactile and sharp feedback (U4), as well as your desired sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

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Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more