Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gazzew U4T. While both switches offer their own unique features and advantages, they differ significantly in terms of their typing experience. The Ginger Milk switches are best known for their soft and pastel appearance, which is reflective of the smooth and approachable push feel they provide. Typing with these switches feels silky smooth, accompanied by a muted and snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switches embody a different combination of qualities. They offer a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, delivering a bassy 'thock' sound profile that satisfies both the ears and the fingertips. With an assertive tactile feedback, every keystroke on the U4T switches provides a satisfying auditory and tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual preferences and typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gazzew U4T differ in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Ginger Milk utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it suitable for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile. This is achieved through the material's softness, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of bottom housing, the Ginger Milk employs a nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows for better sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similar to the top housing, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, or "boba plastic," contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. The softness of this material enhances the acoustic experience, offering a distinct typing sound compared to the Ginger Milk's nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that when both top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. As a result, when pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the release sound will be influenced more by the top housing. Therefore, although the Ginger Milk and the Gazzew U4T have different housing materials, they still provide similar results in terms of sound profile, ensuring an enjoyable and unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Ginger Milk is slightly heavier than the U4T. The Ginger Milk has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, falling in the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the U4T is unknown, but its bottom out force is 62 grams, which is classified as medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the U4T may be more suitable due to its lower bottom out force. This allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for tasks like work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ginger Milk, as its higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push. This adds a sense of solidity to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Despite the differences in weight, both switches offer a decent level of responsiveness and tactile feedback. The actuation force, triggering the keystroke, may be similar between the two switches, even if the exact value is unknown for the U4T. Both switches also have a bottom out force that falls within the medium range. Therefore, for those seeking similar results, either switch could provide a satisfactory typing experience, depending on individual preferences for weight and force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we can see that there is a slight difference between the two. The Ginger Milk has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the U4T has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Ginger Milk being slightly shorter than the U4T. For those who prioritize faster response times, the Ginger Milk's shorter travel distance may be preferred. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker key presses. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper sensation when pressing down on a key may find the U4T with its longer travel distance more suitable. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
The Gazzew U4T 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 Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a muted and snappy sound profile. The switch produces a neutral sound, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced, and can be used in various settings, such as at home or at work. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy 'thock' sound profile. It offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the U4T is described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep, satisfying sound when pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ginger Milk linear switch is known for its silky smooth and approachable push feel. It provides a buttery typing experience, which implies a smooth and fluid keystroke. This switch offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a sharp tactile feedback. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This switch delivers a high feedback intensity, providing a satisfying tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ginger Milk provides a muted and snappy sound profile, along with a silky smooth and approachable push feel. On the other hand, the U4T offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback. Both switches provide auditory and tactile satisfaction, but in different ways. If you are looking for a neutral sound and a buttery feel, the Ginger Milk is a great choice. If you prefer a bassy sound and a sharp tactile feedback, the U4T will meet your preferences. Depending on your personal preference and typing style, these switches can provide similar results in terms of satisfaction and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a soft, pastel switch with a smooth and approachable typing experience, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a medium-heavy feel that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The Ginger Milk also offers a muted, snappy sound profile, making it suitable for use in various settings, whether it be at home or work.
On the other hand, if you value a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides a medium tactile feedback that is satisfying to every keystroke. The U4T also boasts a bassy 'thock' sound profile, adding an auditory dimension to your typing experience.
Ultimately, the U4T is a great choice if you prioritize tactile feedback and a deep, rich sound profile, while the Ginger Milk excels in providing a soft and smooth typing experience with a more neutral sound. Consider your preferences for feel and sound when deciding between these two switches, as they offer distinct characteristics to enhance your mechanical keyboard typing experience.