HMX Deep Navy vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often face a compelling choice between the HMX Deep Navy and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. The Deep Navy, renowned for its silky-smooth keystrokes and rich, sharp sound profile, offers an immersive typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem, making it an ideal option for gamers and typists who prioritize fluid motion and responsiveness. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB presents a luxurious typing feel with its deep "thock" sound upon bottoming out, paired with a quieter “stealth” topping out, all accompanied by a pronounced tactile bump. This balance makes it particularly appealing for users who enjoy feedback with each key press while still maintaining some auditory discretion. Each switch caters to different preferences: the Deep Navy emphasizes smoothness and speed, while the U4Tx RGB focuses on tactile engagement and sound. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Deep Navy Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches reveal intriguing similarities and differences that ultimately influence their overall performance. Both switches feature nylon as the primary housing material for the Deep Navy, while the U4Tx RGB uses a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic." Despite the variance in specific materials, both share a characteristic softness that contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. The nylon used in the Deep Navy is recognized for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller, fuller acoustics, while the Gazzew blend offers similar sound-dampening qualities due to its softness and unique composition, leading to a comparable auditory experience when typing.

When examining the bottom housing of both switches, the similarities continue. The nylon bottom housing utilized in the HMX Deep Navy again promotes that deeper sound profile, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx RGB’s bottom housing, made from the proprietary boba plastic, serves the same purpose of enriching the auditory feedback. In both cases, the characteristics of the bottom housing significantly affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This shared material focus means that users of either switch will experience a thoughtfully balanced escape from harsh sound profiles thanks to the plush softness of both materials.

However, it’s important to note that the differences in housing types can also lead to subtle variances in typing experience. While both the top and bottom housings contribute to sound profile, their distinct materials mean that their individual impacts will be felt differently. The Deep Navy's nylon top housing may provide a slightly mellower release sound upon key release, which can contrast with the characteristics of the Gazzew’s boba plastic. This interplay between the different materials means that while users might achieve similar results in terms of sound depth and quality, the nuances introduced by the unique blend of each switch's housing can create a diverse user experience. Ultimately, even when types differ, the focuses of both switch designs lead to a satisfying typing outcome characterized by a rich auditory profile.

Weight

The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch present notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The Deep Navy boasts a lightweight actuation force of 40 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 45 grams, catering to those who prefer a less taxing typing experience for longer sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch features an unspecified actuation force but has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a firmer keystroke and a more substantial feel that some typists may find appealing. Consequently, while the Deep Navy is the lighter option overall, providing ease of use, the U4Tx RGB is designed for users who favor a more robust typing experience. Therefore, if you're seeking a switch for prolonged use with less finger fatigue, the Deep Navy is preferable. However, if you enjoy a stronger push feel, the U4Tx RGB would be the better choice, reflecting individual preferences in typing dynamics.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this respect. This identical travel distance means that users can expect a very similar keypress feel and response when using either switch, regardless of their underlying mechanisms. Since both switches share the same specification, they should provide comparable results in terms of how far down you need to press the key before it engages, offering a consistent typing experience across both options.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Deep Navy linear switch is distinguished by its rich and sharp sound profile, thanks largely to its full nylon construction, which contributes to an overall premium auditory experience. When typing on the Deep Navy, users can expect a smooth sound that is more subdued compared to some other linear switches, as it does not feature any tactile bump or click. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch produces a unique combination of sounds, showcasing a pronounced deep "thock" upon bottoming out that many users find satisfying, while its topping out is notably quieter. This creates a distinctive acoustic experience that balances a tactile element with stealth, making it ideal for environments where noise might be a concern. Both switches, however, can have their sound profiles influenced by the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and typing style, meaning users may achieve a range of auditory experiences depending on their setup.

When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy excels with its silky smooth linear action that offers an uninterrupted keystroke experience, making it a favorite for those who value seamless typing without any tactile distraction. The linear nature means there's no bump or resistance until the switch bottomed out, allowing for rapid typing without any impediments. The U4Tx RGB, on the other hand, provides a tactile bump that enhances typing feedback, engaging the user through a noticeable response as they press each key. This tactile feedback can help improve typing accuracy and create a more engaging experience, particularly for those who prefer a pronounced sensation with each stroke. While they offer distinctly different feels, both switches cater to diverse typing preferences and can accommodate various typing styles.

In summary, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch offers a smooth and rich auditory profile with an effortless keystroke feel, perfect for users who favor a straightforward and quiet typing experience. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch delivers a satisfying and refined sound complemented by a tactile bump, appealing to those who appreciate enhanced feedback during their typing sessions. Depending on personal preferences, one might opt for the Deep Navy for a quieter and more fluid typing session or the U4Tx RGB for its rich acoustic experience and tactile engagement. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to individual taste, as they each provide unique benefits that cater to different styles of typing.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you gravitate towards a lighter switch that offers a smooth and satisfying keystroke, the Deep Navy switch, with its 45 grams of actuation force, will be an excellent fit. Its full nylon construction ensures not only durability but also delivers a rich sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a noise-friendly environment or who enjoy a more fluid typing style, ideal for activities like coding or casual browsing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback coupled with a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams for those satisfying thock sounds, the U4Tx RGB is the way to go. Its refined sound profile and the pronounced tactile bump make it an excellent option for typists who enjoy the sensation of a traditional mechanical feel while still wanting a quieter operation. Therefore, assess what aspects matter most in your typing experience—whether it’s the smoothness and lightness of the Deep Navy or the pronounced feedback and sturdiness of the U4Tx RGB—and let your preferences guide your decision for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more