Outemu Crystal vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Outemu Crystal and the Gazzew U4. The Crystal switches are known for their unique linear typing experience, offering a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight. Typists can expect a neutral sound profile when using these switches, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches provide a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, giving typists a satisfying feedback with each keypress. Additionally, the U4 switches offer an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding a touch of luxury to the typing experience. With a whisper-quiet sound profile, the U4 switches are perfect for those who appreciate a more muted and low-pitched sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch to suit your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct differences in terms of sound profile and feel. The Crystal features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Moreover, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This softer material creates a more muted and smooth typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Crystal and U4 models continue to differ in material choices. The Crystal employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. As a result, it retains the same sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate significantly influences the clear and resonant sound when bottoming out a key. Conversely, the U4 incorporates its proprietary Gazzew blend in the bottom housing as well. Referred to as "boba plastic," this material imparts a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel of the U4 switches are noticeably different from the Crystal's.
In summary, the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gazzew U4 provide contrasting acoustic experiences. While the Crystal's polycarbonate materials result in a sharper and crisper sound, the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend offers a softer and deeper sound. The choice in top and bottom housing materials influences the typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. However, if the top and bottom housings are the same for a particular switch, it can be expected that the results will be similar, as both top and bottom will contribute to a consistent sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, some similarities and differences can be observed. Starting with the actuation force, the Crystal requires 45 grams of force, while the U4 requires a slightly lighter force of 43 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium-light actuation force.
Moving onto the bottom out force, the Crystal switch requires 55 grams, whereas the U4 switch requires a heavier force of 62 grams. In terms of bottoming out, the Crystal switch is lighter, while the U4 switch is heavier, falling under the category of medium force.
Considering the weight of the switches, those who prefer lighter switches may find the Crystal switch more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it allows for less fatigue over time. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer the U4 switch with its heavier forces.
In summary, the actuation force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch is slightly heavier than the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, while the bottom out force of the U4 switch is heavier than the Crystal switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there is a clear difference. The Crystal has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the more traditional and deeper option. On the other hand, the U4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers, who value quick response times, tend to prefer shorter travel distances like the U4. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel and depth when typing, the Crystal with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Gazzew U4 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique and neutral profile. These switches have a chirpy acoustic signature, which sets them apart from other switches. Additionally, they produce a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a whisper-quiet sound profile. These switches are muted, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. They have a low-pitched tone, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a polished typing experience. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. This polished feel enhances the overall sleekness of using these switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a sharp tactile bump that delivers a high feedback intensity. With each and every keypress, users can distinctly feel the strong and crisp tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Crystal switch provides a linear typing experience with a unique elasticity and medium-light weight. It has a chirpy sound profile and a polished feel, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 switch offers a silent tactile experience with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. It provides a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and has a whisper-quiet sound profile. It's important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these two switches, as they offer distinct qualities. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a softer sound and a smoother feel, the U4 switch may be a better choice.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Outemu Crystal linear switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a fairly elastic feel and have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal switches are described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you crave a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a medium bottom out force, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch would be perfect for you. These switches provide an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and have a low-pitched sound profile, resulting in a whisper-quiet typing experience. The U4 switches are known for their sharp tactile bump, offering high feedback intensity with each keypress.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Crystal and Gazzew U4 switches boils down to your preferences. If you value a linear typing experience with a polished feel and neutral sound, the Crystal switches are the way to go. However, if you desire a tactile typing experience with a sharp bump and quiet sound, the U4 switches are the better option for you. It's all about finding the switch that suits your typing style and preferences best.
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